What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that usually occurs in late adulthood. MS directly affects the central nervous system; the immune system attacks the myelin which is the protective layer around nerve fibers and causes lesions and inflammation. It makes it more difficult for the brain to send signals to the rest of the body.

 
Symptoms that are associated with MS range from visual changes, numbness, tingling, paralysis, vertigo, tremors. It can be diagnosed through clinical history and a series of examinations by a neurologist, it can take several tests to be able to diagnose.

How common is MS?

MS is fairly common, there are 200,000 new cases each year, 1 in 50,000 people struggle with MS. There is no cure for this disease but there are treatments to help substantially improve symptoms.

Can MS be cured?

Certain medications can be prescribed to help suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation as well as beta-blockers which can slow down the progression of the disease. Therapies and staying active are also detrimental to halting the progression of MS, to help maintain movement and physical activities. Certain foods and a healthy and balanced diet may be helpful, though this is more specific to the individual. The severity of MS tends to vary from one person to the next.

How does Push to Walk (PTW) help individuals with MS?

The Mission of PTW is to provide individualized workouts and resources to people with Multiple Sclerosis and other forms of paralysis to optimize their current quality of life and prepare them for future medical advancements. Our proposed program gives the paralysis community access to a wider range of wellness services that can enhance their ability to manage day-to-day activities.

 
Located in Oakland, New Jersey, PTW houses a 7,435 square foot gym with state-of-the-art equipment. Certified trainers are available seven days a week to work with clients. PTW focuses on helping individuals build healthy lifestyles and improve their day-to-day lives. We use training methods to help clients regain strength, function, and independence.
What are some benefits of frequent exercising?

The benefits of physical activity are even more important if you have a disability since people with disabilities tend to live fewer active lifestyles. NCPAD encourages people with disabilities to participate in regular physical activity to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent secondary conditions. Increasing evidence is showing that regular exercise for a neurological disorder can:

• Help prevent loss of muscle mass
• Help prevent spinal circuits from shutting down
• Increase energy

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Client Testimonial

“The creativity of the staff is something I’ve always admired. They knew exactly what kind of activities to do for those with neurological disorders while keeping the workouts unique and fun,” Debby was introduced to exercises she had never done before, for example, using a harness to be able to walk on the treadmill. Debby said she always felt very safe with a trainer and an aide there to help. Something that kept her motivated was watching others who were in a similar position work hard and always have a smile on their face, “ It was a very positive environment that I looked forward to coming to every session ”.
– Former PTW Client, Debby P