Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group

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balance exercises?

StuckAtHome
StuckAtHome
Yesterday and today I almost fell at the top of the stairs. I seem to be having a harder time with my balance than usual. I just feel wobbly, I can't think of a better way to describe it. I already use a cane to help with my balance and I watch where I walk or else I think I fall on my butt. There are a lot of stairs where I live and even some in my house. I'm worried that I'm going to end up taking a tumble down them if I can't find some way to improve my balance. Does anyone have any advice for how to cope with this? Does anyone know of any good balance exercises that might help? Any suggestions are always appreciated. Thanks everyone!
deleted_user
deleted_user
Be careful, walk very slowly
Walk against the wall,or bed etc. taking sideways steps
I'm using 2 canes for support and balance
balance comes from the eyes,the vestibular system, and the feet
sobriety checkpoint excercises
good luck-may you never fall
jb
lorrieonline
lorrieonline
I learned a physical therapy exercise for balance a few years back. It involed a small sturdy cushion that we put on the floor. (a firm cushion such as the one I had for a weight bench back or head rest, not sure with, but it was fairly firm).

I stood on it and then stepped down, one foot at a time. Then got back up on it, one foot at a time. It feels strange but it definitely helps coordinate balance. I'm sure there are more exercises out there.

I just googled PT balance exercises:

http://physicaltherapy.about.com/od/balanceexercises/a/Balanceact.htm
chicagogrl
chicagogrl
I understand. I totally compensate for the knowledge that my balance is shit by walking very slowly and trying not to look around, since if I do that...yikes! Yoga is excellent for balance - it's totally boring, but it will help with balance issues.
lorrieonline
lorrieonline
I forgot the yoga, I do it every morning. I'm trying to work up the stamina to also do it before bed. It does help with balance.
deleted_user
deleted_user
A few things that have helped me and a few others I know...Wii Fit (with the board) is really great. They are a little expensive but a friend might have one they are willing to lend you. Also, a basic ballet fitness video will help you strengthen muscles and limber up a bit. If you can go take a class, even better. A lot of people really like yoga too.

If your insurance covers it, I would try to get into PT. Ask your Neurologist or GP for a referral or contact your local MS society. They tend to know which therapists work best with MSers.
StuckAtHome
StuckAtHome
I have a script for a PT evaluation which I'm in the process of setting up. The script is written for right leg spasticity and weakness. I'm not sure if this means they will be "allowed" to help with my balance. I do hope so though. I have always loved yoga but I'm not sure how to modify it so that it is both useful and I don't fall on my butt. I would think some things I could use the wall or a chair for support. Does anyone know if it is possible for me to hurt myself by stretching "wrong" because of my spasticity, or would it just be helpful? I've been trying all these months to keep my muscles flexible but I've been a bit timid for fear of hurting myself somehow.
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