Stretching for People with MS

Everyone with MS, regardless of his or her degree of ability or disability, needs regular physical activity. Lack of exercise has serious health consequences, ranging from joint contractures, to heart disease to constipation. Just as important, good exercise programs not only prevent problems, they promote a sense of achievement and well-being. This booklet focuses on the basics to move and gently stretch muscles and other soft tissues, such as tendons, on your own, at your own pace. For the purposes of this book, the familiar term “stretching” is used, though most of these exercises are, technically, range of motion activities. Shown are exercises that can be done sitting or on your bed. In addition to the four categories of exercise defined below, everyone also needs relaxation. Exercise can be broken down into five categories, one of which is relaxation. All are important to people with MS