Exercise and Brain Health in MS: Insights from Dr. Andrea Stennett

Join us in this episode as we dive into the important topic of physical exercise and its impact on preserving brain health when living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Our special guest, Neurophysiotherapist and Researcher Dr. Andrea Stennett, shares her insights on how physical exercise can affect brain anatomy, biology, function, and inflammatory markers and responses in MS patients.We explore the role of exercise in managing MS disease activity and disability, and whether it can prevent relapses and increase disability. We also discuss the crucial role of exercise in neuroplasticity, and the use of virtual reality to improve neuroplasticity in MS patients.Despite the numerous studies on the effects of exercise on MS, we address the limitations of these studies, including their focus on more mobile and less disabled patients. Andrea shares her expertise on the minimum physical and brain function requirements for MS patients, as well as exercise guidelines and frequency.In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, we also touch upon the physical effects of the pandemic on MS patients and how to recover from increased disability. As a physiotherapist, Andrea shares what she has learned from MS patients during the pandemic and how they have found healthy physical attitudes, behaviours, and simple methods to stay active.We also discuss common physical struggles that people with MS find frustrating, such as foot drop and hand weakness, and provide helpful tips on how to overcome these challenges. Finally, we conclude with a number of key practical messages for people with MS, their families and carers, and MS specialists such as neurologists, nurses, and therapists.Don't miss this insightful episode packed with useful tips and practical advice for managing MS through physical exercise. Tune in and join us in building a healthier and more resilient future for MS patients.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beewellwithms-podcast-by-dr-agne-straukiene--5762905/support.