What is MS?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system in which the insulating, protective covering (myelin sheath) surrounding the nerves, and the nerve itself, is destroyed or damaged, resulting in interference with the brain's signals to various parts of the body. The disease typically attacks multiple areas within the central nervous system, causing plaques or scar tissue formation, hence the name multiple sclerosis.
What causes MS?
A person's genetic heritage, gender and environment contribute to susceptibility, resistance and pattern of the course of MS. MS is characterized by an abnormal immune response against the central nervous system. The autoimmune response attacks the myelin, a fatty substance that insulates the nerve fibers. This demyelination causes an interruption of nerve impulses and produces the symptoms of MS. In addition, there is significant evidence that demonstrates that MS affects the nerve (axon) causing damage to the nerve itself.
Who is diagnosed with MS?
MS usually affects young adults between the ages of 20 and 50. Twice as many women as men are diagnosed with the disease. MS is found most frequently among people in colder climates; for example, north of the 40th parallel in America . Studies strongly suggest that where a person was born and lived during his or her first fifteen years of life influences the likelihood of developing MS.
Is there a cure for MS?
To date there are five medications which have been shown to be effective in the treatment of relapsing forms of MS. Beta interferons (1a and 1b), glatiramer acetate and natilizumab have all been approved by the FDA to treat relapsing forms of MS. Mitoxantrone has been approved for treatment of progressive MS or “worsening, relapsing MS”. While none of these medications are a cure for MS, they have greatly changed the management of MS.
Additional research, supported by The Heuga Center, has demonstrated the beneficial effects of exercise for people with MS. A landmark study published in 1996 demonstrated physical and emotional health improvements for people with MS, using a regular exercise program.
Other research examining health promotion programs, like those principles taught at The Heuga Center programs, have shown improvements in health related quality of life and overall health promoting behaviors.
Survey research has demonstrated that people with MS want more information on lifestyle management, such as exercise, nutrition and stress management.
What is The Heuga Center ?
The idea of exercise for people with MS, the basic premise upon which The Heuga Center’s programs are based, was developed by Jimmie Heuga. Six years after winning the 1964 Olympic slalom bronze medal, Jimmie was diagnosed with MS, which ended his professional skiing career. At that time, he followed the advice of his doctors and for several years remained sedentary, until his athlete's body rebelled and he "reanimated" himself with an exercise program of his own design. In 1984, with the help of the Vail Valley community, he founded The Heuga Center. Jimmie's philosophy of the wellness approach to MS, which focuses on what can be done rather than what cannot, is now widely embraced by the medical community. The Heuga Center seeks to complement existing treatment for people with MS by providing important education and advice in areas of overall health and wellness, areas which are increasingly unavailable in an overburdened health care environment.
Is it safe for people with MS to exercise?
Yes!! Research has demonstrated that exercise for people with MS is beneficial. Exercise has not been shown to affect the disease process. However, regular exercise has been shown to be beneficial in improving health and decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. In addition, regular, appropriately prescribed exercise can improve strength, flexibility, endurance, sense of well being and even bladder function. A University of Utah research study, published in the Annals of Neurology in 1996, demonstrated improved fitness and a positive impact on factors related to quality of life for people with MS who participated in a 15-week aerobic training program. Information collected on participants in The Heuga Center's follow-up program, CAN DO 2, has demonstrated improvements in physical and psychological measures an average of three years following attendance to The Heuga Center five-day program.
What kind of exercise is best for people with MS?
There is not one specific exercise that is best for people with MS. The most important factor when choosing an exercise program is to find a mode you enjoy because it is difficult to maintain an exercise program if you do not enjoy the activity. Other factors to consider are access to equipment, safety with transfers to and from equipment and group vs. individual exercise. During CAN DO programs, The Heuga Center program staff performs individualized assessments to determine strength, flexibility, balance and endurance. Based on these comprehensive assessments, participants are provided with a personalized exercise and lifestyle management program t that works for them.
How are The Heuga Center 's educational/wellness programs different?
The Heuga Center CAN DO programs have 40-45 healthcare professionals available in one location. In addition, the Center offers CAN DO 2 and JUMPSTART programs and services such as internet based education and teleconferences. The program staff consists of national and international experts in MS management including physicians and allied health and mental health professionals. The programs concentrate on participant’s needs and concerns related to the uncertainty of a chronic disease such as MS. This is done through identifying specific goals of each individual and providing a roadmap for achievement of those goals. Another important aspect is the inclusion of support partners (spouses, family members and friends) as part of all programs, recognizing the unique needs of these individuals as it relates to managing a chronic disease. Approaching overall health and MS management as a “team” provides greater strength and support than ‘going it alone’. The Heuga Center emphasizes the importance of addressing each individual’s needs and goals in its lifestyle management programs.
