Effective Strategies to Slow the Progression of Multiple Sclerosis

Getting a multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis is scary. After all, this chronic condition affects the body’s central nervous system. The body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the protective sheath around nerves. This sheath is called myelin.

When myelin is damaged, communication between the brain and body slows down. This process can cause various symptoms like fatigue and weakness. However, proactive management can change the disease course and slow its progression. 

Here are a few tips that can help you manage and slow the progression of MS:

01 Work Closely with Your Care Team

You need a trusted medical team by your side to monitor health and manage individual symptoms. Look for a neurologist who specializes in multiple sclerosis. These experts know the latest research and the best treatments.  

The neurologist is the central figure, but it’s the nurse who is often the primary point of contact. They provide education about the disease and its treatment. 

As the prevalence and incidence of MS are rising, so is the demand for nurses. Registered nursing jobs are set to grow 5% by 2034. Many nurses who wish to make the most of the opportunity and support these patients are building their expertise through ABSN programs online. 

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs allow individuals with non-nursing backgrounds to enter the profession and specialize more quickly. According to Elmhurst University, the curriculum focuses on the fundamental principles and methodologies for treating common adult health issues in key priority areas. 

Physical and occupational therapists are also essential to help with mobility challenges. Physical therapists help improve strength, balance, and mobility through targeted exercises. Conversely, occupational therapists recommend adaptive tools and strategies that make everyday tasks, like cooking, dressing, or working, more manageable. 

02 Stay Physically Active

When fatigue, stiffness, or balance issues are part of daily life, staying physically active might feel challenging. But limiting activity won’t do any good.  

Research published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry links higher activity levels at the start of diagnosis to a slower progression of disability. You do not have to run a marathon to get the benefits. Any movement is better than sitting still.  

Movement increases levels of a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). It helps brain cells survive as well as grow. It is vital for learning and memory. 

People with MS often have lower BDNF levels. Aerobic exercise can raise these levels back up. Aim for 150 minutes of aerobic activity each week. Brisk walking is a great start. But swimming, cycling, or even chair-based exercises can be just as effective.

To reduce muscle stiffness or spasticity, try stretching and yoga. Strength training using weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises is also important for maintaining muscle mass and bone density. The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology advises engaging in it at least twice a week.

03 Engage in Brain-Boosting Activities

Up to 66% of people with MS are expected to experience cognitive changes over the course of the disease. Keeping the brain active is important to build cognitive reserve. This reserve protects the brain from MS-related decline.   

The brain creates new connections when it learns something new. Novel experiences are better than repeating familiar tasks. Learning a new language or musical instrument can be helpful. These activities engage multiple parts of the brain.

Art and craft activities like painting or knitting are also beneficial. They challenge both creative and logical functions. Reading books and creative writing also spark the mind. Even trying a new recipe can build cognitive reserves. 

Solving puzzles is another excellent activity. Puzzles require focus, logic, and memory recall. Sudoku, crosswords, and jigsaws are classic choices. They strengthen connections between different brain regions.   

You can also engage in social games like chess or bridge. They do more than just sharpen the mind; the social interaction involved triggers a boost in 'happy chemicals.' These natural mood-lifters help foster a more positive perspective on life. 

You can boost your memory by using simple tricks like mnemonics, such as catchy rhymes to remember names or tricky spellings. It also helps to use visualization by picturing a task in your head, or 'association,' which links a brand-new fact to something

Small Steps for a Better Tomorrow

Living with multiple sclerosis is a journey, not a straight path. There will be good days and challenging ones, moments of frustration and moments of strength. Be kind to yourself through all of it.

You can make a meaningful difference if you make thoughtful choices, build supportive routines, and adjust as your needs change.  Progress may feel slow some days, but every effort you make supports your long-term health and independence. So, stay consistent with these, and you will notice improvements in how you feel and function over time.