MS Affected people

MS Affected people do not report as much Fatigue after physical activity if they have a strong sense of self-efficacy and no depression, according to a study published online Nov. 30 2009 in Psychosomatic Medicine.  Self-efficacy is a feeling of confidence and the ability to convince yourself that you can do something you attempt.

University of Illinois in Urbana conducted a study with 219 Multiple Sclerosis patients to look at the role played by physical activity on fatigue in relation to self-efficacy and depression.  The researchers found that self-efficacy had a direct impact on fatigue and also indirectly affected fatigue levels through its impact on depressive symptoms. For the MS patients, there was a direct improvement in fatigue levels attributable to physical exercise. 

For MS, the more active we are the better we feel.  Regular Exertion and stretching can alleviate much of the fatigue, depression and spasticity that MS brings our way.  However, this is best performed in an active environment where one can develop a strong sense of self-efficacy through performance feedback, social modeling and persuasion.

In Prince George, Northern Health’s MS Clinic of the “University Hospital of Northern British Columbia” provides a weekly exercise program in the Hospital formerly known as PGRH.  We meet every Wednesday at Noon for an hour of stretches, bends and exercising in the gym by rehab.  At one, many of us head down to the Cafeteria for coffee, eats and chat.  Every 3^rd Wednesday, the MS clinic provides a snack tray of various treats for participants to enjoy and socialize.  For more on this program and any others, contact the MS Clinic, The MS Chapter or the PG MS Self Help Group.

As well, several free walking clubs exist in Prince George at the Coliseum, the Aquatic center and Pine Center Mall (winter) and around Fort George Park outside (spring, summer and fall).  For information on exercise programs / walk groups in your community if you reside outside of Prince George, contact your local civic information area.  We encourage you to participate and combat the effects of Multiple sclerosis.  Your MS Nurse will explain exercises / stretches and may provide video material for remote patients so they can exercise to their health if they cannot find local exercise groups.