Elderly women stretching on the beach near water.

Learn how movement and physical therapy can improve mobility, reduce fatigue, and enhance quality of life for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.

Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) presents unique challenges, but regular movement can be one of the most effective ways to manage symptoms and improve overall well-being. Exercise helps with mobility, muscle strength, and fatigue while also supporting mental health and cognitive function.

At the Minnesota Center for MS, Dr. Jonathan Calkwood and our team encourage a personalized, patient-centered approach to exercise and physical therapy. With proper guidance, you can stay active in ways that are both safe and beneficial for MS symptom management.

Why Exercise Matters for MS Patients

According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS), regular MS-friendly exercise can improve function and slow disease progression (NMSS, 2022).

Benefits of Exercise for MS Patients

  • Improves Mobility & Balance – Strengthens muscles and coordination, reducing the risk of falls.
  • Reduces Spasticity & Stiffness – Stretching and movement help ease muscle tightness.
  • Boosts Energy Levels – Physical activity combats MS-related fatigue and improves endurance.
  • Supports Mental Health – Exercise releases endorphins, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
  • Protects Brain Health – Research suggests that movement may slow MS progression and support cognitive function (Sandroff et al., 2016).

The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) also reports that staying active can improve memory and mood in MS patients (AAN, 2021).

Best Low-Impact Exercises for MS Patients

Not all exercise is the same, and low-impact activities are often the safest and most beneficial for MS patients.

Stretching & Flexibility Exercises

  • Gentle yoga, Tai Chi, or daily stretching routines.
  • Improves flexibility, reduces stiffness, and helps with spasticity.
  • Studies show yoga can improve balance and well-being in MS patients (Donzé et al., 2020).

Strength Training

  • Light resistance bands, bodyweight exercises, and core stability work.
  • Helps maintain muscle function, posture, and balance.
  • Resistance training can improve walking ability in MS patients (Dalgas et al., 2019).

Aquatic Therapy (Water- Based Exercise)

  • Swimming or water aerobics in a pool.
  • Reduces strain on joints while improving strength and endurance.
  • Recommended by the MS Society UK for enhanced movement and balance (MS Society UK, 2021).

Walking & Gait Training

  • Walking (assisted or unassisted), treadmill work, or gait training with a therapist.
  • Strengthens leg muscles, improves balance, and enhances cardiovascular health.
  • Studies show gait training significantly improves walking endurance in MS patients (Fjeldstad et al., 2018).

Stationary Cycling & Recumbent Bikes

  • Low-impact option to improve endurance and leg strength.
  • Recumbent bikes offer back support and reduce strain.
  • Recommended by the American Physical Therapy Association (ChoosePT, 2021).

Tips for Safe Exercise with MS

Every patient’s MS experience is unique, so modifying activities based on individual abilities is essential.

  • Listen to Your Body – Stop if you feel extreme fatigue or pain.
  • Take Breaks – Shorter, more frequent exercise sessions are better than long, exhausting workouts.
  • Stay Cool – Heat sensitivity is common in MS, so exercise in a cool environment and stay hydrated.
  • Use Assistive Devices – Braces, walkers, and balance supports can make activities safer.
  • Work with a Physical Therapist – A specialist can help create a personalized exercise plan.

The National MS Society recommends working with an MS-certified physical therapist for the best outcomes (NMSS, 2022).

How Minnesota Center for MS Supports Your Movement & Physical Therapy

At the Minnesota Center for MS, we provide expert guidance on safe and effective movement strategies. Dr. Jonathan Calkwood and our team work with physical therapists, rehabilitation specialists, and exercise experts to design customized movement plans for each patient.

  • One-on-one consultations for exercise and mobility guidance.
  • Support in adapting workouts to fit your unique needs.
  • Access to rehabilitation services to improve strength, flexibility, and overall function.

Looking for ways to stay active while managing MS? Contact our team today for a personalized exercise plan.

Additional Resources on MS & Exercise (need to add links)

  • National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Exercise recommendations and physical therapy guidance. Visit Website.
  • Cleveland Clinic: Physical Therapy for MS – Guide to MS-friendly exercise. Visit Website.
  • ChoosePT (American Physical Therapy Association) – Physical therapy programs for MS. Visit Website.

At Minnesota Center for MS, we are here to support you. Whether you need exercise recommendations, therapy options, or symptom management strategies, our team is dedicated to helping you move safely and confidently. Reach out today to learn more.

Our Locations

Minnesota Center for MS
652 Bielenberg Dr., Suite 101
Woodbury, MN 55125 

Minnesota Center for MS
15700 37th Ave N, Suite 110
Plymouth, MN 55446

Contact Us: Call us at 763.344.4770 or visit our website to schedule an appointment. Let us help you stay active and maintain optimal mobility with expert MS care.

Looking for ways to stay active while managing MS?

Contact our team today to create a movement plan tailored to your needs.

With you in hope and in care,

Your MCMS Team