Multiple sclerosis -- MS -- is a disease that affects the nervous system. It is a potentially degenerative disorder in which the immune system slowly destroys the body's nerves. Some patients may go through periods when the symptoms go into remission. Exercise is recommended for multiple sclerosis patients to increase flexibility, reduce stress and manage muscular tension.
Features
One common symptom of MS is stiffness, tension or reduced range of motion in the body. Patients can suffer from tension in the neck due to muscular spasms, stress or muscular deterioration. University of California San Fransisco Medical Center recommends yoga stretches for MS patients to help relieve tension and increase flexibility. Yoga stretches also help patients to develop self-awareness of the subtle muscular changes that come with the fluctuations of the disease. With time and practice, a patient may notice subtle changes that indicate neck tension is developing.
Range of Motion Exercises
Sit in a chair with a straight spine. Roll the shoulders back and away from the ears. Press your index finger lightly into your chin. Gently pull the head back, keeping the gaze straight ahead. This movement releases tension in the back of the neck. Keeping good posture, turn the head slowly to look over the right shoulder. Move the head back to center and repeat on the left side. Perform both exercises two to three times each.
Neck Lateral Flexion
Sit in a chair with your spine straight. Hold on to the seat with the left hand. Slowly drop the head to the right, as if you are trying to touch your right ear to the right shoulder. Use the right hand to apply light pressure to the head to deepen the stretch. Bring the head back to center and repeat on the opposite side. Repeat the exercise two to three times. Stretching the side of your neck should help to alleviate tension in the neck muscles.
Forward Bend
A gentle forward bend can help to stretch and relax the muscles of the neck. Standing straight, make sure that both feet are parallel with the toes facing forward. Hinge forward at the waist as you bend towards the floor. Slowly allow yourself to bend one vertebrae at a time. Let the hands and the head hang towards the floor. Consciously relax the muscles of the neck and face and let gravity gently stretch the neck muscles. Straighten back up one vertebrae at a time and come up slowly to avoid becoming lightheaded.
Considerations
Always consult your physician before practicing a new exercise routine to ascertain whether neck exercises are appropriate for your condition.
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