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Posted: Sun Nov 19, 2006 9:06 pm Post subject: Cycling Good For Spasticity ?
Cure O
On some thread I think you said you wanted to get rid of your spasticity.
This abstract suggests cycling (no resistance) might help with spasticity.
Quote:
This provides converging evidence for the anti-spastic potential of acute unloaded leg cycling in individuals with MS.
I tried it when I had spasticity and found the spasticity lessened significantly after about 10 minutes on the machine.
My spasticity seems to be history for the moment but I attribute that to switching from Avonex to Copaxone since spasticity can be a side effect of the interferons. It could be the exercise though too as I've stuck with the cycling routine as part of my exercise "regimen".
Joined: Jul 28, 2005 Posts: 1129 Location: Sydney, Australia
Posted: Mon Nov 20, 2006 4:28 am Post subject:
Thanks.
I use a cross trainer, that is basically a bike where you stand and move your arms as well. I do however use it on high resistance (too lazy to stay on it for too long )
I noticed that my spasicity in my legs was partially caused by a weakness where my knees would not lock, straight. So I have been strengthening these by jumping on the spot. It appears to have helped.
Dont worry, I havent missed the point that the cycling should be NO RESISTANCE. I have been meaning to get a stick to enable me to do no resistance training of motion, to also teach my legs to do a full circle pattern, instead of the short stroke of my X-trainer (or even a bike). Imagine cycling in the air with your feet forced to stay 50cm apart (vertical plane) all the time.
I do notice after getting off my X-trainer, the spacicity seems less, but I am dead beat.
Joined: Jun 26, 2004 Posts: 229 Location: Near Chicago
Posted: Mon Nov 20, 2006 1:06 pm Post subject:
I do cycling for cardio benefits. I have to be very careful not to overdo it. In the heat it can nearly do me in. Or if I overdo it with too much resistance or even cycling too long, I increase the spasticity and pain in my legs.
It's going a little easier lately though cause I'm taking Baclofen (the last couple of months).
It's actually easier for me that walking, since I'm sitting down on the bike while doing it. I don't have any serious balance issues though, so that will make a difference for a lot of people. _________________ Take care,
Ewizabeth
Previously Avonex, Rebif & Copaxone
RRMS
~Tysabri since 6/04/07~
I currently take 90mg of Baclofen a day, walk and lift weights. When I don't get a chance to walk, my spasticity does seem to get worse. It even seems to help the muscle stiffness I have in my upper body.
Terry.
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but I attribute that to switching from Avonex to Copaxone since spasticity can be a side effect of the interferons. It could be the exercise though too as I've stuck with the cycling routine as part of my exercise "regimen".
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