| Disability and pain frequently hold hands. Those of | | | | This is because exercise causes the release of |
| us who are disabled are less able to move our | | | | the body's natural pain killers. There is nothing as |
| bodies and become increasingly sedentary. This | | | | potent in fighting chronic pain. And you do not |
| creates the vicious cycle of decreasing endorphin | | | | have to be able to run a marathon to benefit |
| release from lack of exercise which increases pain | | | | from these chemicals that your own body can |
| which further lessens mobility, and on it goes. | | | | produce. Gentle, safe floor or pool exercise can |
| The only way to stop the cycle and get pain | | | | accomplish enough endorphin release to work. |
| under control is to find a way to move our bodies | | | | It is frightening when first trying any new |
| in space. This can be done safely, especially under | | | | movement in the face of serious chronic pain |
| the guidance of a skilled physical therapist, yoga | | | | because it is hard to try to distinguish the |
| therapist or tai chi instructor. Water exercise | | | | discomfort of reactivating stiff unused muscles, |
| especially can be an excellent way for people with | | | | tendons, and ligaments from other pain. |
| mobility issues to exercise against resistance | | | | Technique, and how long or how much exercise |
| safely. | | | | to do are critical especially when beginning a new |
| I have M.S. and my mobility has varied from | | | | activity. This is where the guidance of skilled |
| non-ambulatory to walking independently most of | | | | trainers is key. |
| the time. I have found ways to get vigorous | | | | Consult your treating physicians for therapists and |
| exercise at each stage. When I needed a scooter | | | | instructors in your area that have an interest in |
| or walker I took advantage of the M.S. Society's | | | | working with people who have mobility issues and |
| Aqua Therapy Program. I also have had therapists | | | | chronic pain. They are there. Rehabilitation facilities |
| and teachers who were able to modify instruction | | | | are accustomed to finding creative ways to meet |
| in tai chi and yoga to my situation. When | | | | the needs of their clients and so these are good |
| ambulatory, I use walking both for the exercise | | | | places to seek help. Whatever it takes, get |
| and the balance and gait training it provides. | | | | moving! Exercise has a place in everyone's day. |
| The more you walk, the better you walk. The | | | | For those of us with disability, it is vital for |
| more you move, typically, the better you will feel. | | | | preventing increasing debility and conquering pain. |