is this the end of exercise?

[zebulun]

i have had rrms since 2002. i've been on betaseron since 2008, but recently stopped (nov '18)in preparation for ocrevus.
i've been very mobile and able to do anything i want even though my right side is weak.
this year, though, my walking has been a little more difficult, and i'm having problems running/walking on the treadmill.
i'm used to doing a combination of both for an hour, but i find that at about 20 minutes, i can't go on anymore, and if i continue, i'll be limping horribly out of the gym in pain.

do you guys think i'm doing too much, or is my ms progressing?

[KoKo]

i have had rrms since 2002. i've been on betaseron since 2008, but recently stopped (nov '18)in preparation for ocrevus.
i've been very mobile and able to do anything i want even though my right side is weak.
this year, though, my walking has been a little more difficult, and i'm having problems running/walking on the treadmill.
i'm used to doing a combination of both for an hour, but i find that at about 20 minutes, i can't go on anymore, and if i continue, i'll be limping horribly out of the gym in pain.

do you guys think i'm doing too much, or is my ms progressing?

Hi zebulun ~

A gradual worsening over time sounds like MS progression.

Exercise, modified according to your abilities, is still very important.

Be sure to let your neuro know about the changes at your next appointment.

He (she) may want a physical therapist to evaluate your current abilities for an appropriate exercise plan.

Good luck!

Take Care

[Mamabug]

i have had rrms since 2002...

do you guys think i'm doing too much, or is my ms progressing?

We all progress differently. But, you've had a good run (pun intended).

I've also had MS since 2002. Running on a treadmill? I haven't been able to do that for at least 5 or 10 years. I can no longer walk more than a block or two. I use a cane when I leave the house. I could likely often get by without it, but, there are times when I need it for things like going down curbs. I might appear to be drunk if I didn't use it and I like that it warns others that my balance is unstable so others are more careful around me.

But, the end of exercise? No. My MS Specialist believes that regular exercise, especially cardio for 20 minutes 3x a week, helps to delay MS progression. I still exercise. I set my exercise goals so that are realistic for my abilities. You'll just need to discern what's realistic for you.

[zebulun]

koko and mamabug for your replies -- they give me a lot to think about.

i feel grateful for the mobility i've had thus far, but i'm so not ready to let it go yet. i have problems going up and down stairs, and even something as simple as stepping down off a curb can get the better of me. i even read the post 'how do you know when it's time to use a cane?' with great interest, because my walking has gotten so unsteady lately.

i may have to make some adjustments to my workout routine, and hopefully i may see some improvement with ocrevus. i had initially passed on it because i read it causes weight gain, but i think i may have to keep my appointment...

[KoKo]

i may have to make some adjustments to my workout routine, and hopefully i may see some improvement with ocrevus.

Also, regular stretching may help you to move around better.

Most of us have some degree of spasticity (tight muscles that restrict our movements) due to impaired nerve signals.

I have to stretch my legs and back at various times throughout the day, in order to maximize my ability to move around.

Hope you respond well to Ocrevus, and benefit with improvements.

Keep the faith!

Take Care

[Jules A]

Hi zebulun ~

A gradual worsening over time sounds like MS progression.

Exercise, modified according to your abilities, is still very important.

I agree and feel exercise is so valuable both physically and mentally that I'm hoping/planning to continue with whatever type I am able to do. My local YMCA has Steady and Strong classes that can be done from a chair.

[MMMMS]

Could it be something other than MS? I had terrible fatigue and weakness and didn't go to tge neuro because I knew he would look for MS. I went to my GP, who ordered blood work but also told me to get into the neuro ASAP, because it almost certainly was MS. It was thyroid.

Long story just to say that you might check out what else could be going on that would cause the symptoms.

[MermaidOP]

Dear zebulun,

In my opinion, there is never an end to exercise. I've had MS a long, long time, but movement has always been part of my life. I can't dance anymore or hike or backpack for miles and miles, but I still move with purpose in the pool for 1 1/2 hours every day. I believe it helps my brain reroute and repattern in spite of my lesions and brain shrinkage.

I use a tall cane in public places and for short distances. It keeps my shoulders directly above my hips, which I know frees up my gait. For longer walks I use a light walker with high handles. I can sit for a bit if I need to. Small rests seem to do me good.

Don't give up.

Stay lifted,
Mermaid Susan

[Boudreaux]

Don't stop getting after it. Running, walking or crawling, keep it going.