Cognitive Issues
Greetings to All Warriors & Friends! First, let me wish you all great health and a merry Christmas!
I will present to you something interesting which can enlighten and inform. In my search for information I came across Some Brain Games to Boost MS Memory prepared by Mikel Theobald and Medically reviewed by Medical Doctor Farrokh Sohrabi. These games were also recommended for persons with Multiple Sclerosis and had difficulty focusing and remembering by engaging the brain to help improve Cognitive Impairment.
Struggling With Memory Issues? If you are, you are not alone, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS), there’s a 50% chance that some type of cognitive deficit will be experienced due to MS. Whether or not you’re experiencing problems exercising your mind is an important part of staying healthy with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Common Cognitive Problems
“Some common cognitive problems that can affect people with MS according to Dr. Farrokh Sohrabi are impaired processing speed; short-term memory and attention problems; skills like problem solving, reasoning, mental flexibility and visual perception problems. There might also be difficulty remembering words. It is recommended that there are Games that can improve memory and other cognitive issues. My search has shown that games are available at different websites which can be downloaded on phones or tablets which can be taken wherever you go.
Brain Games
Doctors recommend Memory Games because people who participate in mind activities create a “mindandbodyjuggle” reserve that benefits immediately or later in life. If you are currently having specific cognitive problems there might be certain types of brain games which you might want to talk with your MS doctor about it. I will however, share some common games which many doctors have recommended:
1. Crossword Puzzle
Crossword puzzles help to improve cognitive impairment problems related to problem solving, reasoning, mental flexibility, and sequencing. They also have component that can be beneficial for people who are experiencing problems with word retrieval.
Crossword puzzles can be found online but most daily Newspapers have a section with crossword puzzles as well as, books are very cheap in the $ Stores state wide. All you need to get going is a pencil or pen; as a matter of fact even crayons are just as good.
2. Jigsaw Puzzle
JIGSAW Puzzle is a great activity for working on visual-perceptual skills -which a Timer can be used to see how quickly you can complete the task, it can also be used to address processing speed. Keep a log of times so that you can compare one session to the next to measure your mastery over MS symptoms.
3. Sequencing Games
Dominoes, Sudoku and Solitaire are all games that involve some form of sequencing, which is great to target cognitive MS symptoms. These types of games also work on other executive skills, including problem solving, reasoning, and mental flexibility. It is recommended that a record of scores be kept and noting the amount of time you spend playing on each occasion in order to keep track of progress.
A group of game developers, neurologists, and psychologists in collaboration with the NMSS and Microsoft is said to have developed a free online suite of games specifically for the MS community to address some of the most common cognitive changes seen in MS. Brain Games can be found all over the Internet
REMEMBER
With Thinking problems It might be hard to focus from time to time. This will probably mean slowed thinking, poor attention, or fuzzy memory. Some people have severe problems that make it hard to do daily tasks, but that’s rare. Multiple Sclerosis doesn’t usually change your intellect or ability to read and understand conversation.
Simple Ways to Stay Sharp
An active brain can help to prevent the onset of degenerative diseases. But you don’t have to stick to these games to flex those mental muscles; from playing an instrument to chatting with friends, there are plenty of fun ways to boost your brainpower and stimulate you mentally such as those mentioned below:
1.Take Music Lessons: Even if you’re not musically inclined, it might be time to dust off those piano keys. Playing or reading music gives your mental muscles a workout, and helps to build “alternate connections in the brain that could compensate for cognitive declines…” according to the American Psychological Association.
2.Learn a Language: speaking two languages may help to delay the onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms— Switching between two languages challenges the brain and enhances neural network pathways. 3.Take a Nap: Sleep your way smarter. According study by the University of California, during periods of light sleep and quick catnaps, sleep — transfer memories and information from one section
of the brain to another, freeing up space in the brain to absorb and retain more information.
4.Diet: When it comes to keeping your mind sharp, a brain-healthy diet is a must. Reach for one of these heart-smart and brain-healthy foods.
5. Fish Oil : Fish oil isn’t just good for heart health — those Omega-3 fatty acids help to keep your brain strong.
6.Social Engagement: Spending quality time with friends, family and others in conversation and activities is another important piece of the brainpower puzzle. So grab your monthly calendar and pencil in some of these brain-boosting social activities.
7.Dance: Hitting the dance floor with a friend — or even alone! — helps to keep your brain’s neural pathways (the roads that connect and transfer information between different parts of your brain) sharp.— learning new moves also helps your brain generate new paths to make neural connections.
8.Volunteer: if you are not gainfully occupied when loneliness starts to creep in, fight it off with getting involved by throwing yourself into a social and interactive situation (which can keep you feeling upbeat), several studies have supported the idea that volunteer work can help to delay or even prevent loss of brain function in adults.
So fellow Warriors & Friends I hope these suggestions and information helps on the journey of LIFE – One Love |
WE CAN, WE WILL!
A few days ago I watched a video of a disabled truck driver getting into his truck.
My first thought was why is he forcing himself to do this? His truck was a huge tractor trailer. I’m going to post it on my social media pages. I got emotional because I started to think of all the reasons he had to push to keep working.
After a few minutes of rotating the image of the struggle he had getting in his truck ( he also looks like his illness could be multiple sclerosis but I don’t know). I was impressed and motivated. I then thought maybe he’s not doing it because he has to but maybe that’s what keeping him going mentally and physically.
Since watching him it put me in a no excuses frame of mind. I know we can’t all go so hard because our symptoms vary so much and I’m sure he can’t do it everyday but as often as he can. Similarly in our lives we can do the same.
It may be non physical aspersions (eg writing or office work) however I think we should go for it I’m sure if will help our illness whether mentally or physically. Let’s go for it! Let’s do it! We don’t want to be old and grey and have a bunch of “what if’s”.
As usual guys until next time. ONE LOVE:)
NOT QUITE!
I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in August of 2014. I initially thought that it wa going to be one of those illnesses where you just “pop a few pills“ and life goes on. Obviously I had no idea how the disease works.
In the first almost three years I kept working as usual slowly declining physically. I had my own roadside assistance business. It was hard to accept at first. That was how I made money and helped to take care of my family for almost seventeen years.
I quickly came to accept the fact that the most constant thing in life is CHANGE. I thankfully quickly made the necessary adjustments that were necessary to help make life easier.
My message to US today is. Let’s adapt and make the changes that WE need to make in order to have a more fulfilling life. Whether it be physically, spiritually, work/job wise, safety and eating!
Sometimes when WE won’t take a seat(slow down). The Lord puts us down. Don’t get discouraged. Learn the lessons along your journey and make the necessary adjustments accordingly.
As usual guys.
ONE LOVE
Food Switch
Howdy my fellow warriors. I hope most things are going well with you all. Today I’m going to talk a little about my “new” “food switch”. This way of eating I’ve been thinking about for a while.
I’ve been thinking about it for a while because I wasn’t sure if I could give up the food that I’ve been eating for almost 45 years now (chicken, oxtail, pork, rice and peas and the could go on and on). The eating process I’m referring to is Plant Based.
I’ve been eating plant based for about 7 weeks now and I haven’t had any regrets. I haven’t had any meat and no problems. I used to worry about how I would get my protein but I quickly discovered that there are several bone meat ways of getting protein. (Ie chickpeas, walnut meat etc)
Some of the benefits I’ve seen so far are a- feeling healthier b- weight loss (if interested in that) and more. I’ll put some of the things I’ve been eating below. I’m no health professional but it’s a lifestyle change worth looking into for people with MS and other chronic illnesses.
Just to show a few of what I eat now.At first I thought they would taste horrible but they really don’t in my opinion.
As usual guys
ONE LOVE
THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH BEING ANGRY
According to the Cleveland Clinic, one of the most common emotional change you may experience with Multiple Sclerosis is Anger. The others include: depressive symptoms and episodes, grieving for the loss of a “normal” life, insomnia, stress and anxiety. These are present because of the constant uncertainty and worry igniting the feeling anxiousness, stress, or fearfulness.
Anger is an Emotion: It is an emotional response triggered by an interpretation that a threat is or may be present. Everyone has lots of emotions and at different times you may be happy, sad or jealous etc. Anger is just another way that people feel so it is okay to get angry but it must not be kept for long. It must however be released right away, it is compared to a pot of boiling water with the lid left on. If the steam does not escape, the water will eventually boil over and blow its top causing different problems. Anger is a powerful emotion but must be controlled by the angry person; in other words it must be self-controlled
While it is true that you always feel something first before we get angry, such as: afraid, attacked, offended, disrespected, forced, trapped, or pressured we must know about .Self Control: It is the ability to regulate your emotions, thoughts, and behavior in the face of temptations and impulses before it turns into Rage. This is where anger has taken over the body completely and you have no control. making you unable to think rationally about the consequences of your actions.
The consciousness that Anger is an emotional complication of multiple sclerosis (MS) resulting partially, from the disease itself it is important for anger to be speedily address because keeping angry thoughts bottled up is also associated with a poorer quality of life, This attempt to make you aware is to encourage self control so that physical and mental health can be controlled and help is sought where and when neededDespite the limited scientific evidence, experts suspect that anger in a person with MS is the result of brain lesions. While many studies have not provided the means of treating anger in Multiple Sclerosis, it has been found that Mindfulness interventions have improved the quality of life, (anxiety, depression, fatigue, and pain) in people with MS.
As usual guys
One love
DOES IT HELP?
What is apple cider vinegar?
-derived from the French word “vin aigre”. It literally means and is sour wine and the acidic taste is a result of such. The apple part of it is derived from the fermented apple juice that is added to it. Yeast and alcohol is also mixed in.
It is said it may reduce some gastrointestinal symptoms but having a talk with your doctor before use is highly recommended.
Some suggestions are that it can help with: weight loss, Acid reflux and a host of other issues. I must say however that there are no scientific researches to back up these opinions even though many people swear by it.
Throughout several generations vinegar especially apple cider vinegar has been used to help resolve many medical issues. More recently apple cider vinegar has been touted as a antioxidant used to “detoxify” harmful toxins from the body.
For example, a study published in April 2018 in the Journal of Functional Foods found that drinking 30 milliliters (about 2 tablespoons) a day of the liquid, along with a restricted-calorie diet and exercise, reduced body weight (by an average of 8.8 pounds over 12 weeks) and appetite compared with a restricted-calorie diet alone.
Some researchers have recommended using apple cider vinegar as a alternative to antibiotics. Effectively proposing a new way of looking at an old use for the product. A study published in January 2018 in the journal Scientific Reports found that apple cider vinegar was effective at restricting the growth of E. coli, S. aureus, and C. albicans bacteria, which in some cases are resistant to currently available antibiotics.
I’ve found that it helps with nausea, heartburn/indigestion, difficulty swallowing, constipation and more. In closing for me personally I use it however I’m not a medical doctor so I highly recommend that you speak with your doctor before adopting this perspective as your routine.
As usual guys
ONE LOVE
IDEAS ON HOW TO LIVE A GOOD LIFE WITH MS
1- learn everything you can.
MS can affect everyone in several different ways. Learning as much as you can about the disease will help you in your fight. Find out the facts and clarify any misconceptions about the ways to handle or treat your issues.
2- Stay current with treatments and clinical trials.
I like to check the National MS Society. They are a good resource for treatments, trials and support groups in your area.
3-Keeping active
Daily exercise is essential for muscle strength. Yes I know it’s hard but nevertheless essential.
4- Sleep
Sleep is important and trying to keep it on a schedule does help. Create a routine. Stay away from bright lights before bed and late afternoon or evening caffeine.
5- MS Partner
You don’t have to go through this journey alone. If you don’t know anyone with the illness there are several groups around. You can find them several ways ie the MS Societies website, simply google search and a lot of social media partners. You can find several on my personal Instagram mbj_ms38.
6- Eating Well
This is one of the methods that I know most if not everyone agrees on. A good diet has been proven to help and slow down the progression of this illness and more brain legions. What diet works best? Is up to interpretation and your personal research and trials.
7- Split Up Chores
Everything does not have to be done all at once. In fact I’d recommend Doing different chores at different times depending on how you’re feeling.
8- Furniture
Rearrange furniture in a way that your home doesn’t become a obstacle course.
9- Nifty Gadgets
If you can invest in things that will make your day to day easier. ie grab bars, a jar opener, a long reach tool etc.
10- Reminders
Because brain fog is so common with MS Warriors it I think is a good to set reminders for things you need or want to get done. Whether it be on your phone, writing it down etc.
11- Positivity
Staying positive definitely helps. This is one of the reasons I started my website and various social media accounts ( links to my various social media are on this site )
In closing. Life with Multiple Sclerosis can be difficult but it’s not a death sentence. However like with anything else we only get out what we put in both mentally and physically. We can do this warriors! The journey won’t be easy but doable.
As usual guys
ONE LOVE
KEEP ON ROLLING
2020 has been one of those years hasn’t it? A year dominated by covid-19 and political drama. Let me first say to all that were and still are affected negatively by either situation, my condolences, I’m sorry for whatever you may be or have gone through.
Outside of those things Multiple Sclerosis goes on.
This pass year there were two new medications approved by the FDA for MS patients. Zeposia and Kesimpta. Both these medications are self administered. I don’t know enough yet however about the results of people using them. Zeposia is a oral drug and Kesimpta is by injection by monthly.
It’s was also a year where we got to learn more about ourselves and family which is a good thing. A good thing meaning we were able to re-evaluate somethings. Hopefully we learned how to be more appreciative of the people around us and the little things.
For those of us who may be down or depressed about what’s going on. Take comfort in knowing that whatever it is shall pass! Learn the lessons and act on them. We are all in this journey together. YOU ARE NOT ALONE IN THIS! No matter how bad we may feel. Reach out there’s help! Feel free to check out the helpful resources page.
As usual guys
One Love
NOW WHAT!?
So now we are diagnosed. What’s next? Now we are faced with a choice. A- we fight this disease to the best of our physical and mental abilities or B- we roll over a become a paper weight.
I recommend the first option. Why? Because just laying around and looking out the window becomes boring and painful really fast plus time flies. One minute you’re twenty and the next you’re forty.
I speak from the point of experience. Been there, done that, bought the T-shirt. MS (Multiple Sclerosis) is not a death sentence but it will have a strong negative impact on our lives as most of us have figured out.
Be strong for yourself and all the other people who are counting on you to be (children, parents, spouses, on lookers and the list goes on and on). None of us are exempt. I can count on maybe four or five hands how many times I’ve been outside my house in 2020. Being “comfortable in the nest” and covid being a strong factor.
This year 2021 let’s fight the odds, the stereotypes and “make life happen” whatever that may mean to you. Take the help!, push through! Just do it!
As usual guys
ONE LOVE
I NEVER KNEW
Living with MS is definitely a challenge for each of us and it doesn’t, matter the level of our
disability or ability. When I started to experience the symptoms of MS I did not know what was
happening. In fact I did not know anything about it; I did not recall ever hearing the word “multiple
Sclerosis” or what it means. I never knew of anyone who had this illness/disease.
I was first diagnosed in 2014; a variety of feelings, thoughts and emotions overwhelmed me which I
had never experienced. At first I started feeling sorry for myself and never wanted to share with
anyone about my condition. I however, started to gather as much information as I can about
Multiple sclerosis (MS) and discovered that it is an unpredictable disease with a range of symptoms.
I have also learnt to understand the facts about MS and my specific diagnosis, treatment options,
and the challenges of living with the disease that this is the first step in learning how to successfully
manage it.
Having learnt over the years that I was not alone with this illness and many of those with the
disease have continued to manage their lives, activities and coping in general I am driven to share my
experiences and how I keep myself going in a purposeful way with the hope that someone will be
encouraged to “keep going”. This does not only apply to those with the disease but to the immediate
(spouses, children) and extended family; along with friends and relatives.
AS USUAL GUYS
ONE LOVE
Understanding Depression and how to deal with it
Depression can strike anyone – the Poor, the Very Rich, the Very Young and Older people; it is no respecter of persons. “Depression is an episode of sadness or apathy along with other symptoms that lasts at least two consecutive weeks and is severe enough to interrupt daily activities” BUT don’t worry too much about Discouragement and Depression because they are normal parts of being human. No one should be punished or has ever been punished for their sadness but should be encouraged to be hopeful and encouraged out of it bearing in mind the fact that you are never alone.
As one with MS – If you are experiencing deep sadness, worthless or guilty; having “Crying spells”, trouble concentrating or making decisions and most importantly having thoughts of suicide.
Please find someone to share them with or seek some help when you are feeling down you may want to read (Psalm 34:18, KJV) which says: – The LORD is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Remember that Faith in “Restoration and Healing” is a powerful concept which is real.
as usual guys
ONE LOVE
ANGER AND MS
As you all may know I am an advocate for POSITIVITY – does that mean that I am not sometimes angry? NO! My mother is reminding me that Anger is an Emotion which is also acknowledged in the Bible. The Bible speaks about being angry and “sin not” I’ve had people commenting on how I’m not angry with everything that I go through having Multiple Sclerosis. The fact is MS has not shaped my personality and who I am as a person – my orientation and socialization did. My immediate and extended family, church and friends have been a great support providing the motivation that I need to maximize my God-given potential within the context of this illness.
I will however hasten to say that it doesn’t mean that I don’t have to deal with those emotions and ‘moods’ where I’m asking myself what did I do to deserve this? Don’t my wife and children deserve a husband and a father who can physically stand and literally (if necessary) fight for them? What about my parents (especially my mother0 and my younger brother?
Throughout all of this, I am happy with where I am. Yes, I have Multiple Sclerosis. But all of that together, makes me who I am. I try to not ‘show it’ when I’m angry, depressed or sad because in reality, if I had a choice I would not have chosen it; however, when I see what some other sickness bring and what some people are going through anger is very far from my mind and I am happier thanking God.
One of the things that I let people with MS know, especially the newly diagnosed, is that it’s okay to be angry but be careful what you do when you are angry. No one has the right to tell you how to ‘feel’. I try to be a positive person, someone that can encourage others, but will let you know that I am not always Happy, but there is a level of peace and contentment while I am learning what my Creator would want me to learn and “in this season” of great expectation, expecting my healing and the identification of a cure for Multiple Sclerosis.
I believe my mission on this journey is to become stronger from this experience, keep on fighting, and reach out to other as I am doing in this blog. I am reaching out to you all and hope that you have support to reach out too when you are down or just need to express yourself in whatever way you need to. Don’t trap any anger and negativity you have inside – don’t allow it to explode – get it out. Remember ‘feelings buried alive never die”.
As usual guys
ONE LOVE
Assistive Devices are tools, products or types of equipment that help you perform tasks and activities. They may help you move around, see, communicate, eat, or get dressed. Some are high-tech tools, such as computers. Others are much simpler, like a “reacher” – a tool that helps you grab an object you can’t reach. These devices make life with Multiple Sclerosis a little easier helping with tasks like walking, dressing, and bathing, by not using up a lot of energy. Some of these devices are
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Assistive Devices
- Orthotics: These are lightweight inserts you wear inside your shoes that can keep you more stable and ease fatigue. They also can brace your feet, which helps if you have spasticity in your feet.
- Leg braces: Weakness in your leg muscles can make it harder to go up and down stairs, rise from a chair, or walk. An ankle-foot brace can keep your ankle stable when you have trouble with the muscles that raise the foot. It fits into a regular shoe and keeps your toes from dragging.
- Neck brace: If you have muscle weakness in your neck, a neck brace may make you more comfortable.
- Canes: One of these may be the most useful tool when one leg is weaker than the other, or when you have mild problems with balance. When using a can hold it on the stronger side of your body while your weight is shifted away from your weaker side. ***In deciding on a cane you must bear in mind that the four-legged cane or quad can give you more stability than a standard one.
- Walkers: These are best if you have a lot of leg weakness or a balance problem. You can add wheels or platforms to the walker if you need to.
- Wheelchairs or scooters: They can give you more freedom to go where you need to if it’s getting harder for you to get around on your own. They’re usually best if you have serious fatigue, are very unsteady on your feet, or you fall some times.
It’s a good idea to have a session with a physical therapist to learn how to properly use your cane or any other assistive device.
As Usual guys
One Love
MUSIC
As you may know by now, through my blogs on social media and otherwise I am a lover of music. Some of the music I share with you are of different types because of the message, the tune and the impact.
Music ministers to humans to the point of happiness expressed through laughter and peace of mind. It was Shakespeare that says “if music be the food of love – play on”.
Reflections on my childhood saw myself and my brother going to music school to learn to play the piano, my parents thought it a good idea mainly because my father played several instruments in the church we all attended, he played the trumpet, drums and guitar, in fact in our living room (the house I grew up in) right now the guitar is on a stand which my father will play as he feels the urge to do.
Shakespeare says “If Music be the food of love …play on” . Music is defined as ‘a pattern of sounds made by musical instruments, voices, or computers, or a combination of these, intended to give pleasure to people listening to it’
According to article written by David Spero, RN and medically reviewed by Samuel Mackenzie, (MD, PhD) Music and Rhythm can help with Movement and Memory for persons with MS by improving the brain’s ability to function and the body’s ability to move and by extension can improve walking ability, hand function, memory, and more.
If you have become ’clumsy” as some will say one way that this can be helped is music therapy — This is a therapy that uses music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, or social needs of individuals.
This is explained by Barbara Seebacher, PhD, a physiotherapist by saying that there are three different brain centers responsible for the timing of movement: the motor cortex, the basal ganglia, and the cerebellum.
One or another of these can be damaged by Multiple Sclerosis and Music can often supply the timing that has been damaged, helping your body to work more smoothly.
Neurological music therapist Brian Harris, a founder of MedRhythms in Boston, says, “When you hear a rhythm, a song, or a metronome, it activates the auditory system, which activates the motor system at a subconscious level.”
This process is called “entrainment” and the rhythm tells your brain to tell your body to move. For people who have damage to the brain, using rhythm can engage undamaged areas to help people move. We have quantifiable data on this. People walk faster; they have longer strides. You can see the changes on neurological imaging.”
Benefits of Music Therapy Beyond Walking
Harris says, “The principle of motor entrainment can be applied to anything that’s movement related, not just walking. Function of the hands or mouth and tongue, including speech, can be improved using rhythm.” Some people can’t talk, but they sing. Many who have had strokes have been walking and talking better with music.
MS-damaged brains can be healed:
According to Dr Harris it was the view of many that MS-damaged brains could not heal; but we now know they can, because of a process called “neuroplasticity.” In this process the undamaged parts take over for damaged parts, and different parts of the brain learn to work together better with the help of music. Music activates our entire brain improving.
Neuro-psychiatrist Jon Lieff, MD in his writings indicated that music training improves “capacities related to perception, performance, and language.” He also says that learning to play or singing music “increases brain efficiency, with fewer neuronal units needed to encode information.”
Did you know different aspects of music are processed in different parts of the brain?
Dr Lieff also states that different aspects of music are processed in different parts of the brain. For example, timing is organized in the cerebellum. Pitch is “processed in different areas throughout the brain. Musical imagery is analyzed in the frontal lobe, and singing is mostly in the right frontal lobe.” Music can get the whole brain working together.
Music Improves the Ability to Remember
About half of people with MS have cognitive (Thinking/thought) problems at one time or another. Music can help them remember and think.
“Your brain likes to hold onto strong sensory input,” says Harris. “Music is strong sensory input. Think of the ABC song you learned as a child. The brain puts different bits of information together into larger pieces. The ABCs are 26 different letters, but you put 5 or 6 of them together, and the brain remembers the whole thing.”
We can use this trick to help us remember. “With people who have memory lapses,” Harris says, “if you can find ways to make even a list and put them in a song, you’ll remember them better. Change the words of a song you know to be the things you want to remember.”
How to Use Music Therapeutically
According to Harris et al (and others):
- “Rhythmic auditory stimulation is a standardized intervention. We take a client’s baseline walk. Then we start music at the baseline tempo. Once they entrain, in a few minutes, you increase the tempo by 5 to 10 percent and have them entrain at that tempo. Then increase it a bit more until they reach their goal. When they walk on the beat, their gait improves.”
- , you can also do this on your own, walking to music or imagining yourself walking while listening to music.
- suggests imagining walking while trying out these scenarios:
- Feel your whole body, your weight on your legs. Feel the swinging of your arms and legs, feel your upper body upright, the length of your steps.
- Imagine yourself walking upright with a rice bag on your head.
- Walk very energetically as if you were marching in the army.
The right music must be selected(Not Waltz)
According to the therapists whether you’re actually moving or just imagining it, you need the right music. “It should be rather fast, between 80 and 120 beats per minute. For healthy people, 120 steps per minute is normal, while people with MS might be closer to 80,” If you can play, sing, or tap out your own rhythm, that may be even better than listening thereby more of your brain.
Not every type of music is useful, though. Harris says it must be a regular 4/4 time with a strong beat, not a waltz (which is 3/4 time) or a tune with a beat that’s constantly changing.
Also, you want music that gets you excited, not relaxing music. Most pop music has a good rhythm and tempo for real or imagined walking. Harris adds that you should listen to music you like, because the emotional impact is important.
The information shared I found quite enlightening
and pointed to the fact that people with Multiple Sclerosis can still live
a life of quality and music can be a great contributor.
ONE LOVE
Robert Ferguson
HAND NUMBNESS
GREETINGS TO ALL WARRIORS AND FRIENDS!
Warriors, we are blessed to have our family, friends, relatives and people in general around us to help in every way possible in support of us keep on going. I am never alone people are always around to help me “pull it together” when I am not all together.
They say I am an inspiration to them but they are inspiration to me based on their united effort, my united family of four, parents and brother who care for me from a distance in another country, my geographically closest aunt, cousins and church family united to keep me going and managing Multiple Sclerosis.
I have heard it said that illness can unite and bond families and I can now testify that this is a true statement. My family and friends have surrounded me with love and compassion and although I sometimes think or even know that they are tired I see them going beyond the “call of duty”.
Friends and families I salute you!
I was reading a article a few weeks ago which reports that many public schools have stopped teaching children to write in script because some educators had rendered writing by hand an outdated skill. Another article showed that research has shown that writing by hand is a stimulating activity that is actually a stimulating activity for peoples’ brains; and is in fact very good for persons with MS as fine-motor activities of the fingers and hands, such as knitting or woodworking and even driving.
According to medical doctors numbness and delayed motor control are the two most significant symptoms that affect the ability of some person with MS to write. In discussing numbness it is said that for persons with MS, the hands can feel like it is cuffed especially when trying to write. With MS it is said that doing things rapidly is hard especially if there are tremors, which can impede smooth writing.
Making it easier to write:
Here are some tips for making it easier to write:
Pick the right pen. Bulkier pens are more helpful if there is decreased sensation in your fingers or impaired coordination. A fatter pen will have more surface area available to grip,” A pen with a rough texture can also help as against a slippery one which will be harder to manage.
Use wide-ruled paper that will give you more room to write, making it easier to write more legibly.
Choose the right time of day for writing tasks, when you haven’t had to deal with a lot of other fatiguing activities – that is after you have had a good rest
As is already said numbness or tingling in the hands, arms, and legs is often the earliest symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS), but symptoms affecting the hands can also include pain, muscle weakness, tremors, and problems with hand-eye coordination.
All of these symptoms are caused by a disruption in communication between the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and the sensory nerves in the hands.
Hand exercises for people with MS
According to Luketic “The following hand exercises for MS can improve your ability to grip and pinch with your hands.
i. Do the exercises slowly, and pay attention to how you feel. By using weights or exercise bands, you’ll increase your hand and forearm strength,
ii. Bend the fingers of one hand toward the palm to make a fist. Then straighten your fingers and stretch out your hand; repeat with the other hand. Gradually work up to 10 to 15 repetitions of the exercise at a time.
Start with one set a day, then progress to two sets in a row, or do one set twice a day. If one hand is affected more than the other, you might do two sets on that hand and only one set on the stronger hand.
iii. To focus more on strength, hold a rolled-up washcloth, sponge, Nerf ball, or ball of therapeutic putty in your hand as you squeeze and release. These objects will provide some resistance.
iv. If you want to increase your grip strength, use a tennis ball or a small hand therapy exercise ball.
v. Straighten the thumb and fingers of one hand. Spread the fingers apart and then squeeze them together; repeat with the other hand. Perform three to five repetitions to start; progress to 10 to 15 reps once, and then twice, a day.
To add resistance, place a rubber band around your fingers when they’re in the closed position (it should fit snugly), and then spread them apart, pressing against the band. You can also use a small rubber band on two or three fingers at a time.
Rice Exercises
Place a large bag (or two) of rice in a big bucket. Place your hands in the bucket and open and close them in these various positions:
- Palms facing each other
- Palms facing away from each other
- Palms facing your body
- Palms facing away from your body
You might also rotate your hands in a clockwise direction, and then counter-clockwise, in the rice. “You can also try this exercise with sand.
Movement Therapy, or ‘Piano Hands’
Sit up tall in a chair, facing a table or desk. Place your hands, palms down, on the edge of the table (your forearms should be hanging off). Lift your fingers up and down, one at a time, as if you were playing the piano. Then move them up and down the imaginary keyboard. You might even do this to real music — play for 20 to 30 seconds of a tune to start. “Gradually increase the time until you can play an entire song,” Luketic says.
Massage and Dexterity Exercises
Massage therapy can help with burning or prickling feelings or numbness in the hands. You can also try some hand physical therapy or hand occupational therapy, such as playing cards or video games, doing crafts that require dexterity, or try typing at your computer keyboard or organizing your desk or kitchen drawers. Include some stretching in your routine as well.
These exercises and activities won’t make hand pain and numbness go away, “but stretching helps get more blood flowing to your hands and can help you increase movement and manage tightness,” Luketic says.
How Family Helps Manage MS
Though this Dad has multiple sclerosis, he’s not alone. His family of five pulls together when his symptoms worsen to finish chores. Watch how Dad became an inspiration to his kids and MS united them as a family.
AS USUAL GUYS
ONE LOVE
Spasticity
I start off with the words of the Psalmist David who said “I will praise thee because I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). I know some may not agree with the Psalmist but if you examine yourself amidst all that Multiple Sclerosis (MS) challenge us with – aren’t we wonderfully made with our own uniqueness of strength and personality to be this great survivor, not giving up but enduring in another side of life that we would not have volunteered to
I have often heard people say that they hate the very word Multiple Sclerosis, None of us love the word or what it represents but it is pointless to be bitter about it because it will not help with the healing process but will rather aggravate it. I will encourage you not to do what MS does by making us sick but to roll up our sleeve and fight it in every way as the search for cure continues while we devise strategies that will help us survive as we also embrace Divine Intervention.
Spasticity. A word I can’t recall hearing until my encounter with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). It is said to be one of the hallmark symptoms of this illness of those who suffer with MS. Spasticity is described by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) as “feelings of stiffness” and “involuntary muscle spasms which is commonly described as sustained muscle contractions or sudden jerking movements.”
These symptoms may be as mild as simple muscle tightness, but they may become severe enough to produce painful muscle spasms as well as pain and stiffness in and around the joints. It has been estimated to affect the majority of persons with MS in the legs and often generate problems with balance and strength and vary from person to person in its impact on the muscles involved.
Types of spasticity
There are said to be many types of spasticity but the two most common types in MS are what is called Flexor spasticity and Extensor spasticity. According to National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) Flexor Spasticity may involve the hamstrings, which are the muscles on the backs of the upper legs, or the hip flexors, which are the muscles in the fronts of your upper thighs. People experiencing flexor spasticity may notice that their hips and knees seem stuck in a bent position and are difficult to straighten.
Extensor Spasticity on the other hand, affects the muscles on the fronts and insides of the upper legs, effectively forcing the hips and knees to remain straight, with “the legs very close together or crossed over at the ankles,”
These two types of Spasticity are said to be an associated jerking of the limb and are often described as being “stiff like board” affecting their ability to sit, stand, or walk. These feelings are not usually early signs. Signs including muscle tightness and pain —should be attended to as soon as they are felt, and medical team should be informed before it begins to interfere with daily activities.
How can Spasticity be Managed?
In limiting debilitating effects of spasticity the following are recommended by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS):
- Be proactive to avoid complications such as contractures and pressure sores, which a regimen of regular stretching of arms and legs will most certainly help. If spasticity is mild, that may be all that you need,
- If spasticity or other symptoms make it difficult to stretch muscles on your own, working with a physical therapist or health aid is recommended.
- Encourage yourself to do daily exercises
- Anti-Spasticity Ball helps with easing the pain and stiffness
- Splint Hand Functional Impairment Finger Orthotic Hand Ball Rehabilitation Exercise
Friends, Families, Caregivers
Families, Friends and Caregivers you are precious to the one who have challenges with spasticity and by extension Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Please understand what Spasticity is all about so that you can be a good support – It is “a condition in which certain muscles are continuously contracted. This contraction causes stiffness or tightness of the muscles and can interfere with normal movement, speech and gait. Spasticity is usually caused by damage to the portion of the brain or spinal cord that controls voluntary movement. The damage causes a change in the balance of signals between the nervous system and the muscles. This imbalance leads to increased activity in the muscles. Spasticity negatively affects muscles and joints of the extremities and is particularly harmful to growing children”.
So Warriors, Families & Friends the JOURNEY continues
ONE LOVE-
Rob
WARRIORS & FRIENDS I SALUTE YOU ONCE MORE!
On a daily basis, Life can be a hard pill to swallow. ‘As the world turns’ we find that it brings all kinds of things our way that often consume us with regrets, failures and insecurities that can linger in our minds and control our actions. Not to ignore the fact that this same life also brings us blessings and joys allowing us to maximize what my mother would say is our God-given potentials.
Nevertheless, often times we are overwhelmed by situations over which we have no control and cannot change and things we wish we could push back. We experience heartbreak, loss and fear, along with betrayal, jealousy and bad memories and this illness MS which none of us would have chosen if we had a choice. However, life doesn’t have to be so hard we can learn to let things go and leaving the worries of the past to yesterday and learn to cope in our different ways.
Those who go through life with a seemingly unaffected attitude are the people who understand the angles of life and the differences between what can be changed and what cannot. In understanding those differences, they are able to move on and enjoy life as it’s presented – as the saying goes “change what you can change and what you can’t you learn to live with or without it”. You shouldn’t be choking on life. All you need is water, a good mindset and an understanding between the things that can be changed and the things that must be accepted.
Illness has united and bonded families and Friends in a way that their own uniqueness can be instrumental in developing their coping strategies to enrich and empower living this beautiful thing called LIFE.
C H A N G E !
Change is to make or become different; this is a transformation that takes place every moment of the day in one shape or other. This simply means that if we are not changing we are not living. There are some changes that are good for those of us with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) challenges which will be good for us. Here are some of these CHANGES: –
Change your idea of beauty and accept your imperfections:
There’s nothing you can do about your long arms or your elbow knees. You can’t fix your big ears or your even bigger feet, but you can change how you feel about them. Your imperfections are only imperfections as long as you make them so and it’s up to you to accept yourself, flaws and all. Tell yourself you’re beautiful and let your imperfections become defining qualities rather than flaws you wish you could get rid of, because you never will.
Accept your situation, change your outlook.
What’s happening to you here and now is not something you can change, but you can change how you respond to it because there’s nothing worse than someone who doesn’t know how to “go with the flow.” Life is too short not to be making the best out of situations and fretting over things that cannot be changed. Learn to adjust your expectations and change your outlook so you don’t waste moments that could have been great ones.
Accept where you are now, change where you’re going.
You may not like where you are now, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have the power to change where you’re going. Only the weak let their current situation determine their future one. The strong and the passionate take charge of their futures and don’t let their surroundings stop them from getting somewhere else.
Accept those who hurt you, change who you surround yourself with.
Hurt you once, shame on them. Hurt you twice, you’re a masochist. If someone hurts you, there’s nothing you can do, but use the pain and the knowledge of that pain to refuse to let it happen again. Surrounding yourself with people who are only going to hurt you is like deliberately cutting yourself.
Pain is supposed to teach you a lesson, to keep you from making the same mistake twice. Learn from those who did you wrong and choose the next person you let into your life with trepidation and the knowledge of that pain.
Accept the things you can’t change, change the things you can’t accept.
There are some things that you cannot change. However, there’s always something you can do. If you hate the cold, you might want to move to a warmer area. If you absolutely can’t accept something, then you must make bold moves to change it. However, the sooner you start accepting the things you cannot change, the happier you will be.
The more you change the things you refuse to accept, the greater person you will become.
So Warriors, Families & Friends don’t be afraid to make changes, they can make the JOURNEY more exciting as LIFE continues.
ONE LOVE –
THE 411 ON FATIGUE
Fatigue is a lack of energy and motivation. Drowsiness and apathy (a feeling of indifference or not caring about what happens) can be symptoms of fatigue. Fatigue can be a normal and important response to physical exertion, emotional stress, boredom, or lack of sleep. However, it can also be a nonspecific sign of a more serious psychological or physical disorder.
According to Mayo’s Clinic most of the time fatigue can be traced to one or more of your habits or routines particularly lack of exercise. It’s also commonly related to depression. On occasion, fatigue is a symptom of other underlying conditions that require medical treatment.
For those of us with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Fatigue CAN have a huge impact on us – BUT – with the right approach to exercise it can be reduced allowing us to continue to live an active fulfilling life.
I will be sharing some ideas about Fatigue and how it can be reduced with the right approach to Exercising. So let’s do what we can do – by not “Rusting out” but “wearing out” which is a better option.
Illness has united and bonded families and Friends in a way that our own uniqueness can be instrumental in developing the coping strategies needed to enrich and empower living this beautiful thing called LIFE.
While it is said that Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of tremendous variability the most common — and often most weakening or tiring — symptom of MS. Unlike what can be termed ‘ordinary’ tiredness, Fatigue in MS is not the same or should not be compared to the activity (ies) being performed and it’s not just associated with physical activity.
In addition to fatigue contributing to impaired balance and a reduced ability to walk properly it can also cause diminished mental capacity and a feeling of tiredness, no matter how much rest you receive. According to Medical Practitioners fatigue in MS is extremely complex but there’s evidence that an individually tailored exercise program can help to bring relief.
How does MS Fatigue (Subjective and Objective) Impacts Survivors
I must share with you something which I discovered in my research, and it is that there is Subjective and Objective MS Fatigue.
- Subjective fatigue is said to be a general feeling of exhaustion, feeling lethargic, sluggish, sleepy, or depressed (or some combination of these) and have difficulty performing activities they previously had no problem completing.
- Objective fatigue is said to be a progressive worsening of physical performance, resulting in tasks becoming more difficult the longer the task is performed.
Both types of fatigue often occur together but don’t always correlate, for example, people might say they are not fatigued, but it can be clear by their walking pattern that their muscles are fatiguing. The opposite can also occur: A person could appear to be functioning fine but feel utterly exhausted making it important that both types of fatigue are measured in their own way.
It’s however more difficult to measure subjective fatigue accurately which can be done by a Physical Therapist on a case-by-case basis, usually by asking the person under what circumstances the fatigue occurs.
Objective fatigue is somewhat easier to measure using physical performance tests of walking or balance. Of course, performance can be affected by the person’s level of physical conditioning; for example, some people with MS might fatigue with a very short walk, while others might need to run a few miles before there are objective signs of fatigue.
How does EXERCISING helps Fatigue in MS survivors?
It has been said that there was a tie when many health professionals thought exercise would worsen MS conditions but there is now strong scientific evidence that exercise can help decrease the effects of fatigue in those with MS. Let us note the following:
- While exercise can cause a temporary increase in fatigue; it’s important to differentiate this from worsening of the disease. The fatigue caused by exercise is temporary and does not result in worsening of the disease.
- Many persons with MS may be reluctant to exercise because of an incorrect idea that it will result in a worsening of the disease. In fact, the opposite is true: Persons with MS who exercise will have fewer limitations in mobility than those who do not.
- One of the physiological reasons for MS fatigue has to do with the regulation of internal body temperature because an increase in temperature can lead to worsening function of demyelinated nerves, resulting in deteriorating performance of these already damaged nerves. This presents a special problem for persons with MS who want to exercise, because exercise causes an increase in core temperature.
Controlling body temperature:
- One way to combat the rise of internal body temperature is by using cooling modalities. There are a variety of different ways to lower body temperature, including cooling garments, ice packs, ice drinks, and aquatic therapy if the water is on the cooler side. Exercising in a cooler room can also be helpful.
- Another approach to controlling body temperature is to perform intermittent exercise – instead of walking for 30 minutes straight, for example, walk for five minutes and then take a five-minute break. Repeat this until you’ve done 30 minutes of walking. This allows the body’s core temperature to go down between blocks of exercise. Intermittent exercise has been shown to decrease fatigue while increasing the amount of exercise performed and also increasing overall endurance.
So Warriors, in addition to exercise to ease Multiple Sclerosis Fatigue, you can seek advice from your Physical therapist in identifying things to avoid or modify to prevent excessive fatigue. For example, in this hot summer you might want to get up earlier before the sun gets hot and do some of the exercises when you are more energised.
You can also take on the mental exercise techniques which will get you relaxed and ready for a good night’s sleep. Medical Practitioner however suggest that you find out if and how the timing of your exercise regime affects your sleep by exercising close to bedtime for a couple of weeks, then try exercising earlier in the day and then compare the quality of your sleep following both exercise periods to see if exercising too close to your bedtime has any negative effects.
So fellow warriors, Families and friends once more I hope you found something in this Newsletter that added value to existing knowledge as the journey continues.
ONE LOVE –Rob
WHAT NOW!!
Hello warriors! I hope this post finds you all in good health and spirits!
I know that one our biggest worries is how do we survive? Or how do we take care of our family? It can be worrisome.
What I’ve decided is to do is whatever I can do. I have always been someone who was a blue collar worker. I did roadside assistance for seventeen years, fifteen of which I was self employed so imagine how I felt when I realized that I wasn’t able to do what I did for so long and loved to do.
Reality quickly set in. Thank God for my parents and the attitudes and knowledge they instilled in me as a child growing up. My mind after acceptance went directly to “what can I do now to survive and help to take care of my family?”.
I’ve always had a love for people and also to see them do well. I noticed via my instagram and Facebook accounts that there were so many people a lot of them much younger than I was suffering with this illness and several other chronic illnesses, some of them wondering what’s the point of them going on because they were going to have this problem for the rest of their lives. This inspired me to create a blog/website which I would use to encourage, motivate and offer different channels for people to get help.
Where did the time go? It’s been over two years now. I’ve written two books, I’ve done several investments and just very recently created another website mainly for affiliate marketing ( productatob.com ). You can do similar things as well! Just apply your our spin or flavor to it/them.
Don’t get caught up in the “Y Me”. I mean it’s only normal to do so but the key is not to stay there. Don’t allow yourself to fall so deep that it now becomes another challenge to get yourself out of that ditch! If you’re already there try your best to find a community of people to help pull you out. This can be family, friends, church, school, some sort of society, there’s a lot of help out there. Just try to surround yourself with people who are in a better space than you are, THAT’S KEY!
So my fellow warriors as I close out this post I guess my message is DON’T GIVE UP! Channel your as my mom would say your GOD GIVEN TALENT! into something that you’ll love to do. Do it for the love and not only for the likes:)
As usual guys
ONE LOVE
Robert Ferguson
LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE!
As I reflect on my childhood and growing I never saw life the way it is now with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). I never knew or heard about MS until I was diagnosed. For a while the Radiance that generated from my life experiences subsided and I had to find reasons to keep radiated.
I am examining the word RADIANCE and how despite the fact that MS has adjusted our dreams and goals of life, how we can and are still expected to Radiate as was intended by our Creator. We can let our light shine1 and still make a difference.
The word Radiance is described as a glowing light shining from something. The world cries for Light, especially when there is darkness – According to the book of Genesis 1:3 God is the creator of light. It tells us that when the earth was covered in darkness God said, “Let there be light: and there was light”.
We (even with our illnesses) are expected to radiate this light because we were designed to reflect the Light and love of the creator of earth and people.
We are also told in the book of Matthew 5:14 that “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.” So don’t be afraid to stand out in a crowd. You may be tempted to say “just one little light in the darkness. How can I affect my world?” but don’t worry if you want to make the impact {YOU} your light will be ENOUGH to be used to make that difference.
It doesn’t matter how young or old we are. It doesn’t matter where we were born. It doesn’t matter if our name is known or unknown. It doesn’t matter what we own or how much money we possess and most of all it doesn’t matter our illness none of that matters. YOU just need to be willing to be a light.
You are alive to shine! You have purpose; you have a place. You were designed to reflect His light in your own circumstances.
So fellow warriors, Families and friends once more I hope you found something in this that added value to existing knowledge as the journey continues.
ONE LOVE –
Rob
THE IMPACT OF MS ON OUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY
I will share with you what I have found out about the impact of Multiple Sclerosis on our friends and families and how we all have been coping together. I do hope you will find this motivational and cheerful.
Often times we forget that those around us though not the one with the illness are feeling for us and sometimes more than us. Assessing the impact of the disease on our families, friends and caregivers life in general is “usually” not given the attention it deserves. I will however, hasten to say that many caregivers do not have a problems ministering to the needs of the persons going through it.
Studies conducted on the impact on caregivers tend to capture only the negative consequences of the caregiving role. It is worth to highlight that caregivers also may experience positive emotions such as: satisfaction, gratification, pride, and feeling closer to families, friends and their partners. It was also discovered that many of us along with caregivers do not know enough about the illness. In this Newsletter we will share some new information about Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
As we all may know Multiple Sclerosis—commonly referred to as “MS”—is an unpredictable and debilitating disease of the central nervous system. It disturbs the movement of knowledge within the brain, between the body and the brain.
Scientists have now discovered that the “Root Cause” of Multiple Sclerosis is strongly correlated with the modern diet and lifestyle, causing the body to become diseased by acids; sugars‚ carbohydrates‚ excess fats and uric acid (all very common in our modern diets) which keep flowing through our bloodstream.
This lifestyle breaks down the body and takes you out of balance — this is when you develop that cluster of symptoms called “Multiple Sclerosis.” If this attack on the body is not stopped more serious conditions are developed and eventually more life-threatening health problems.
The readings of different research has made me conscious of the fact that if I focus of the ‘Root Cause’ of your Multiple Sclerosis and not just “Medication” “fighting the symptoms,” from a more health conscious perspective and paying more attention to what I put inside my body, I have less problem fighting some of the symptoms caused from the food and drugs that go to my body.
As we were all told Multiple Sclerosis drugs simply mask symptoms because there is said to be no cure. This means that as we take the medications our immune system is being weakened so we have to eat what will constantly build back the system.
According to Matt Traverso – Health and Consumer Advocate & Author of Healing MS -the Multiple Sclerosis Breakthrough as natural inner balance is restored, you will begin to experience renewed energy, absence of pain and aches, and more and more of your symptoms associated to Multiple Sclerosis will disappear… They’re your first steps to freedom from Multiple Sclerosis medication.
While you keep supporting your body in this way, it will eventually recover completely, giving you back your health and freedom from a life of taking drugs and only getting sicker.
Cognitive
Another important aspect of your health that must be guarded is out thought process which is often referred to as cognitive. This is the area that that is most challenged because it involves the Mind which controls every thought and influences every feeling. You may now even reflecting on the when you were first diagnosed how overwhelmed you were and the many places your mind went in trying to find answers to the questions ‘why, “how come” etc.
Cognition refers to a range of brain functions, including the ability to learn and remember information: organize, plan, and problem-solve; focus, maintain, and shift attention as necessary; understand and use language; accurately perceive the environment, and perform calculations.
Emotional
Emotional changes are more common in MS than in other chronic illnesses—because of neurologic and immune changes caused by the disease, and as a reaction to the stresses of living with a chronic, unpredictable illness.
Bouts of severe depression (which is different from the healthy grieving that needs to occur in the face of losses and changes caused by MS), mood swings, irritability, and episodes of uncontrollable laughing and crying pose significant challenges for people with MS and their family members.
Keeping Your MIND Renewed
- It is a disease that attacks the nerves and muscles and is now very treatable
- Smile and think the best of things…not negative, positive.
- Whether you decide to “Bike for MS” or “Walk for MS,” the more you get moving, the more opportunities you’ll have to spread and share MS awareness. Exercising not only helps you to remain active, but it keeps your endorphins pumping, and puts you in a more positive mood.
- Aerobic exercise program organized by Utah University for people with MS result in:
- better cardiovascular fitness,
- better bladder and bowel function,
- less fatigue and depression,
- more positive attitude, and
- increased participation in social activities.
- For people with MS involved in an exercise program, it is also believed that:
- Breathing can become deeper and more regular
- Circulation can increase, bringing oxygen throughout the body
- Flexibility can increase and joint range of motion can improve
- Fatigue can be better managed
- Muscles and joints can be strengthened
- Ambulation endurance can improve
- Skeletal structural alignment can improve
- Balance issues can be addressed
- Additionally, exercise for Individuals with MS
- Secondary complications of spasticity, muscular tension and muscle atrophy can decrease
- Swelling can decrease
- Weight maintenance/reduction is facilitated
- Tolerance for exercise can increase
- Level of independence may increase
- Isolation and depression may decrease
- A general feeling of well being enhanced
I hope today you find comfort and joy knowing that God can and will do anything for us, but He often does what is best for us.
One Love! Rob
THINGS ONLY MS PEOPLE KNOW
Hi warriors! I hope all is well (at least most things). I just wanna encourage all of us today to keep pushing. WE are a very strong set. We not only deal with one issue but multiple. All while dealing with family, spouses, kids as well as all of life’s other challenges.
-Your sobriety is always questioned. Sometimes you may look drunk or be clumpy.
-We tend to wake up from a 8 to 10 hour sleep tired. Getting “good rest” sometimes won’t make you feel well rested.
-We nap more often than most people check their phones. The number 1 symptom of MS is fatigue.
-We talk so much about our illness that we name it(lol). Usually in a third person.
-We never get tired of hearing NO NEW LEGIONS!
-Taking a shower can feel like a Oscar winning performance. The more MS progresses the harder it becomes to do regular daily activities.
-You look good isn’t always a compliment.
-We get excited when we see a vacant handicap parking spot because that usually means the walk to the building is a whole lot less and those spots are usually more readily available.
-We plan our routes and do lists a lot more. It becomes second nature. Usually our routes are a lot more safe.
As usual guys. ONE LOVE!
Greetings to All Warriors & Friends!
The idea of this post is not just for you all but for myself also as I learn everyday something new about Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
As I seek to edify myself, I feel compelled to share these edifications with you along with some jokes, games and other creative ideas that will cheer us along the HEALING road of this illness which is sometimes painful and uncomfortable.
There will also be something for our family members, friends and associates. I do hope will find this motivational and cheerful.
One Love,
Rob
In my search for information I came across Some Brain Games to Boost MS Memory prepared by Mikel Theobald and Medically reviewed by Medical Doctor Farrokh Sohrabi. These games were also recommended for persons with Multiple Sclerosis.
Struggling With Memory Issues?
If you are, you are not alone, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS), there’s a 50% chance that some type of cognitive deficit will be experienced due to MS. Whether or not you’re experiencing problems exercising your mind is an important part of staying healthy with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Common Cognitive Problems
“Some common cognitive problems that can affect people with MS according to Dr. Farrokh Sohrabi are impaired processing speed; short-term memory and attention problems; skills like problem solving, reasoning, mental flexibility and visual perception problems. There might also be difficulty remembering words. It is recommended that there are Games that can improve memory and other cognitive issues. My search has shown that games are available at different websites which can be downloaded on phones or tablets which can be taken wherever you go.
Brain Games
Doctors recommend Memory Games because people who participate in mind activities create a “mindandbodyjuggle” reserve that benefits immediately or later in life. If you are currently having specific cognitive problems there might be certain types of brain games which you might want to talk with your MS doctor about it. I will however, share some common games which many doctors have recommended:
- Crossword Puzzle
Crossword puzzles help to improve cognitive impairment problems related to problem solving, reasoning, mental flexibility, and sequencing. They also have component that can be beneficial for people who are experiencing problems with word retrieval.
Crossword puzzles can be found online but most daily Newspapers have a section with crossword puzzles as well as, books are very cheap in the $ Stores state wide. All you need to get going is a pencil or pen; as a matter of fact even crayons are just as good.
2. Jigsaw Puzzle
JIGSAW Puzzle is a great activity for working on visual-perceptual skills -which a Timer can be used to see how quickly you can complete the task, it can also be used to address processing speed. Keep a log of times so that you can compare one session to the next to measure your mastery over MS symptoms.
3. Sequencing Games
Dominoes, Sudoku and Solitaire are all games that involve some form of sequencing, which is great to target cognitive MS symptoms. These types of games also work on other executive skills, including problem solving, reasoning, and mental flexibility. It is recommended that a record of scores be kept and noting the amount of time you spend playing on each occasion in order to keep track of progress.
A group of game developers, neurologists, and psychologists in collaboration with the NMSS and Microsoft is said to have developed a free online suite of games specifically for the MS community to address some of the most common cognitive changes seen in MS. Brain Games can be found all over the Internet
REMEMBER
With Thinking problems It might be hard to focus from time to time. This will probably mean slowed thinking, poor attention, or fuzzy memory. Some people have severe problems that make it hard to do daily tasks, but that’s rare. Multiple Sclerosis doesn’t usually change your intellect or ability to read and understand conversation.
Simple Ways to Stay Sharp
An active brain can help to prevent the onset of degenerative diseases. But you don’t have to stick to these games to flex those mental muscles; from playing an instrument to chatting with friends, there are plenty of fun ways to boost your brainpower and stimulate you mentally such as those mentioned below:
1.Take Music Lessons: Even if you’re not musically inclined, it might be time to dust off those piano keys. Playing or reading music gives your mental muscles a workout, and helps to build “alternate connections in the brain that could compensate for cognitive declines…” according to the American Psychological Association.
2. Learn a Language: speaking two languages may help to delay the onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms— Switching between two languages challenges the brain and enhances neural network pathways.
3.Take a Nap: Sleep your way smarter. According study by the University of California, during periods of light sleep and quick catnaps, sleep — transfer memories and information from one section of the brain to another, freeing up space in the brain to absorb and retain more information.
4.Diet: When it comes to keeping your mind sharp, a brain-healthy diet is a must. Reach for one of these heart-smart and brain-healthy foods.
5. Fish Oil : Fish oil isn’t just good for heart health — those Omega-3 fatty acids help to keep your brain strong.
6.Social Engagement: Spending quality time with friends, family and others in conversation and activities is another important piece of the brainpower puzzle. So grab your monthly calendar and pencil in some of these brain-boosting social activities.
7.Dance: Hitting the dance floor with a friend — or even alone! — helps to keep your brain’s neural pathways (the roads that connect and transfer information between different parts of your brain) sharp.— learning new moves also helps your brain generate new paths to make neural connections.
8.Volunteer: if you are not gainfully occupied when loneliness starts to creep in, fight it off with getting involved by throwing yourself into a social and interactive situation (which can keep you feeling upbeat), several studies have supported the idea that volunteer work can help to delay or even prevent loss of brain function in adults.
So fellow Warriors & Friends I hope these suggestions and information helps on the journey of LIFE, So until Next time – One Love |
WARRIORS, FRIENDS AND FAMILY I SALUTE YOU ONCE MORE!
I will share with you some strategies to live a purpose-driven life within the limits of the conditions of Multiple Sclerosis. While the search is on for a cure there are some Assistive Devices that can be considered to enhance and enrich our lives.
Assistive devices have or will become important to many of us over the years for inclusion in the mind of the person with Multiple Sclerosis because they assist in developing more independence and maintaining a satisfactory level of self esteem. For Individuals like myself who believe in being self sufficient and having a high level of independence have come to realize that we might not have a choice; for example, I now use a cane to assist in my movements.
Warriors being challenged by a variety of physical, mental, and psychological symptoms associated with MS are often faced with a decline in quality of life because of the limitations requiring the use of different Assistive Devices for MS patients functions of daily life (from walking without fear of falling or even seeing more clearly).
So let us explore what are some of these Assistive devices that can be of help to us and where they can be found.
Assistive Devices Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Assistive Devices are tools, products or types of equipment that help you perform tasks and activities. They may help you move around, see, communicate, eat, or get dressed. Some are high-tech tools, such as computers. Others are much simpler, like a “reacher” – a tool that helps you grab an object you can’t reach.
Assistive Devices are tools that can make life with Multiple Sclerosis a little easier helping with tasks like walking, dressing, and bathing, and help you use less energy. So can An Occupational or Physical therapist who can recommend devices that will help you the most and teach you how to use them.
Mobility Aids for MS
Some of these devices may help you get around:
- Orthotics: These are lightweight inserts you wear inside your shoes that can keep you more stable and ease fatigue. They also can brace your feet, which helps if you have spasticity in your feet.
- Leg braces: Weakness in your leg muscles can make it harder to go up and down stairs, rise from a chair, or walk. An ankle-foot brace can keep your ankle stable when you have trouble with the muscles that raise the foot. It fits into a regular shoe and keeps your toes from dragging.
- Neck brace: If you have muscle weakness in your neck, a neck brace may make you more comfortable.
- Canes: One of these may be the most useful tool when one leg is weaker than the other, or when you have mild problems with balance. Here are some tips for using one:
- Hold the cane on the stronger side of your body while your weight is shifted away from your weaker side.
- A quad, or four-legged, cane can give you more stability than a standard one.
It’s a good idea to have a session with a physical therapist to learn how to properly use your cane or any other assistive device.
- Walkers: These are best if you have a lot of leg weakness or a balance problem. You can add wheels or platforms to the walker if you need to.
- Wheelchairs or scooters: They can give you more freedom to go where you need to if it’s getting harder for you to get around on your own. They’re usually best if you have serious fatigue, are very unsteady on your feet, or you fall sometimes.
Aids for Everyday Tasks
There are a lot of ways to make everyday tasks easier and less tiring. You might want to Talk to your physical or occupational therapist about trying some of the following tools:
- Bathing: Tub bench, Hand-held shower head or Grab bars in the shower or tub
- Using the Toilet: Bedside commode, Grab bars near the toilet and Toilet seat with armrests (you can put a raised seat over a regular toilet)
- Dressing:
- Velcro, buttons, zippers, and hooks on clothing
- Sock puller
- Long-handled shoe horn
- Buttonhook
- A stool to sit while you get dressed
- Cooking; Utility cart with wheels. Electric can opener, Pot stabilizer and Reacher devices
- Eating: Special utensils, such as large-handled spoons and forks, rocker knives, and “sporks” (a mix of a spoon and fork). Plate guard Wrist supports
- In the Bathroom
- “Showering is tiring, plus soap and water makes it easy to slip,” To make it safer, install a steady seat or bench in the stall and use a hand-held shower nozzle. Roll-in showers exist for people in wheelchairs.
- For showering, it’s best to replace glass doors with a shower curtain and install grab bars. “But grab bars must be professionally installed,” In addition, have an occupational therapist advice you on the best placement for them. Mechanized tub seats are available for people needing extra help getting in and out.
- Sinks should have long, lever-type faucet handles. Insulate any pipes to avoid bumps and burns.
- A standard toilet can be made more comfortable by installing a raised toilet seat with handles.
- In the Kitchen
- Use a refrigerator/freezer with side-by-side doors.
- If possible, install a wall-mounted oven; other oven modifications include side-hinged doors and stove dials that face front.
- Remove cabinets under the sink and under a portion of countertop to create a food-prep space where you can be seated (again, be sure to insulate any pipes). Use slide-out shelves and drawers for easy access to food and dishes.
Use electric jar and Can openers and a food processor. “You’re given a certain budget of energy every day. If at all possible get what you need to make life easier – don’t waste your energy or “work harder” when you can ‘work smarter”
So Warriors, Some Of These Assistive Devices Are Available here On My Website, Don’t Forget To Visit To See Some Great Bargains.
mindandbodyjuggle.com/store
So Until Then
One Love –
Rob
Greetings to All Warriors & Friends!
As I seek to edify myself, I feel compelled to share these edifications with you along with some jokes, games and other creative ideas that will cheer us along the HEALING road of this illness which is sometimes painful and uncomfortable.
If you are, you are not alone, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS), there’s a 50% chance that some type of cognitive deficit will be experienced due to MS. Whether or not you’re experiencing problems exercising your mind is an important part of staying healthy with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
There will also be something for our family members, friends and associates. I do hope will find this motivational and cheerful.
In my search for information I came across Some Brain Games to Boost MS Memory prepared by Mikel Theobald and Medically reviewed by Medical Doctor Farrokh Sohrabi. These games were also recommended for persons with Multiple Sclerosis and had difficulty focusing and remembering by engaging the brain to help improve Cognitive Impairment.
Struggling With Memory Issues?
Common Cognitive Problems
“Some common cognitive problems that can affect people with MS according to Dr. Farrokh Sohrabi are impaired processing speed; short-term memory and attention problems; skills like problem solving, reasoning, mental flexibility and visual perception problems. There might also be difficulty remembering words. It is recommended that there are Games that can improve memory and other cognitive issues. My search has shown that games are available at different websites which can be downloaded on phones or tablets which can be taken wherever you go.
Brain Games
1. Crossword Puzzle
Doctors recommend Memory Games because people who participate in mind activities create a “mindandbodyjuggle” reserve that benefits immediately or later in life. If you are currently having specific cognitive problems there might be certain types of brain games which you might want to talk with your MS doctor about it. I will however, share some common games which many doctors have recommended:
Crossword puzzles help to improve cognitive impairment problems related to problem solving, reasoning, mental flexibility, and sequencing. They also have component that can be beneficial for people who are experiencing problems with word retrieval.
Crossword puzzles can be found online but most daily Newspapers have a section with crossword puzzles as well as, books are very cheap in the $ Stores state wide. All you need to get going is a pencil or pen; as a matter of fact even crayons are just as good.
2. Jigsaw Puzzle
JIGSAW Puzzle is a great activity for working on visual-perceptual skills -which a Timer can be used to see how quickly you can complete the task, it can also be used to address processing speed. Keep a log of times so that you can compare one session to the next to measure your mastery over MS symptoms.
3. Sequencing Games
Dominoes, Sudoku and Solitaire are all games that involve some form of sequencing, which is great to target cognitive MS symptoms. These types of games also work on other executive skills, including problem solving, reasoning, and mental flexibility. It is recommended that a record of scores be kept and noting the amount of time you spend playing on each occasion in order to keep track of progress.
A group of game developers, neurologists, and psychologists in collaboration with the NMSS and Microsoft is said to have developed a free online suite of games specifically for the MS community to address some of the most common cognitive changes seen in MS. Brain Games can be found all over the Internet.
With Thinking problems It might be hard to focus from time to time. This will probably mean slowed thinking, poor attention, or fuzzy memory. Some people have severe problems that make it hard to do daily tasks, but that’s rare. Multiple Sclerosis doesn’t usually change your intellect or ability to read and understand conversation. Simple Ways to Stay Sharp
An active brain can help to prevent the onset of degenerative diseases. But you don’t have to stick to these games to flex those mental muscles; from playing an instrument to chatting with friends, there are plenty of fun ways to boost your brainpower and stimulate you mentally such as those mentioned below:
1.Take Music Lessons: Even if you’re not musically inclined, it might be time to dust off those piano keys. Playing or reading music gives your mental muscles a workout, and helps to build “alternate connections in the brain that could compensate for cognitive declines…” according to the American Psychological Association.
2.Learn a Language: speaking two languages may help to delay the onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms— Switching between two languages challenges the brain and enhances neural network pathways.
3.Take a Nap: Sleep your way smarter. According study by the University of California, during periods of light sleep and quick catnaps, sleep — transfer memories and information from one section
of the brain to another, freeing up space in the brain to absorb and retain more information.
4.Diet: When it comes to keeping your mind sharp, a brain-healthy diet is a must. Reach for one of these heart-smart and brain-healthy foods.
5. Fish Oil : Fish oil isn’t just good for heart health — those Omega-3 fatty acids help to keep your brain strong.
6.Social Engagement: Spending quality time with friends, family and others in conversation and activities is another important piece of the brainpower puzzle. So grab your monthly calendar and pencil in some of these brain-boosting social activities.
7.Dance: Hitting the dance floor with a friend — or even alone! — helps to keep your brain’s neural pathways (the roads that connect and transfer information between different parts of your brain) sharp.— learning new moves also helps your brain generate new paths to make neural connections.
8.Volunteer: if you are not gainfully occupied when loneliness starts to creep in, fight it off with getting involved by throwing yourself into a social and interactive situation (which can keep you feeling upbeat), several studies have supported the idea that volunteer work can help to delay or even prevent loss of brain function in adults.
So fellow Warriors & Friends I hope these suggestions and information helps on the journey of LIFE
EATING HEALTHIER
If you have been following my website, Facebook pages and YouTube you would have noticed that I have embarked on a review and serious look at Eating Healthily. I am inviting you to follow me while I share with you some of the ways to eat healthily and to consciously do what’s in the best interest of all of us fellow WARRIORS.
In this month’s Newsletter I have decided to feature some fruit from the Caribbean which are in this country which have benefits which can enhance enrich our healthy lifestyle and enrich our bodies. Below are some of these fruits, and the benefits from eating these fruits. The first picture is what you will meet when you get to the market which is usually an attractive display to get your attention to purchase.
Breadfruit is a good source of potassium, a vasodilator which helps to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. It also has a high fiber content which has been shown to lower ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol. The breadfruit has to be roasted or baked to be eaten, and is delicious whether eaten alone or with any form of vegetable or meat.
Otaheite Apples are eaten as is. Its high water content – of 100g weight, is also a good source of vitamin C, Calcium, Thiamine, Riboflavin and is a powerful Antioxidant.
Guineps contain Vitamins A and C which help to boost the immune system and prevent the formation of urinary stones. They also contain Calcium and Phosphorus. Calcium keeps teeth and bones strong and helps prevent cancer. Phosphorus aids digestion and regulating hormones. Guineps help you sleep better! They contain a large amount of the amino acid tryptophan which is important for good sleep.
Guava is a sweet and juicy tropical fruit that grows abundantly throughout the Caribbean. It’s typically enjoyed on its own, juiced, and in desserts, and is sold fresh, frozen, canned, and in the form of guava paste or jam. This mouth watering fruit has vitamins, antioxidants, fiber, and high vitamin A content, which is important for healthy eyes and vision. Vitamin A also helps to ward off cataracts, muscular degeneration and age related vision changes. Guava is an excellent food to include in one’s diet.
Sweetsop fruit contains alkaloids that are effective for preventing the growth of tumour cells and reducing the risk of cancer. They help fight cancer, enhance eye health, and treat a range of infections.
June Plum is a good source of vitamin C and Iron and is said to be able to relieve the effects of high blood pressure, heart conditions, urinary tract problem and even diabetes! It is eaten mainly as is or used to make juice which is very tasty and popular in many countries.
Soursop: Imagine a flavour combination of strawberry and pineapple with a subtle creamy undertone and you’ve got yourself the taste of soursop. Native to the Caribbean and Central America, soursop is most popular in Jamaica. The best way to use soursop is to juice it. The leaves of soursop also make a good hot drink which is good for lowering high blood pressure.
Star fruit (Carambola) boosts the immune system, stimulating lactation, detoxifying the body, relieving respiratory distress, protecting the skin, aiding in weight loss, speeding up the metabolism, preventing cancer, optimizing digestion and building strong bones. It is an excellent anti-inflammatory and boosts hair and skin health.
Pomegranate: Benefits of eating a raw pomegranate is a rich source of vitamins, giving you 28 milligrams of vitamin C, 1.69 milligrams of vitamin E and 1 milligram of zinc.The drink is tangy and tasty
Mangoes are juicy stone fruit produced from numerous species of tropical trees which are said to belong to the flowering plant genus Mangifera, cultivated mostly for its edible fruit. Most of these species are found in nature as wild mangoes. A mango is a popular tropical fruit that is eaten in sweet and savory dishes around the world. It can be green, yellow, orange, red, or a combination of these colours, and has yellow or orange flesh surrounding a flat seed. The fruit is typically peeled and cut away from or eaten from the seed. Mangoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals and are a good ingredient for making a fruit drink and giving it body.
So Warriors this is but a few of the types of fruits that we can benefit greatly from as we continue the fight to stay fit and healthy within the context of managing the symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS), no single diet can treat or cure MS. because MS symptoms typically come and go however, MS specialists suggest that a low- fat, high-fiber diet can benefit people with MS, as well as eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Warriors, we are blessed so let us continue to maximize every moment positively,
Live well and enjoy this thing called LIFE!
So Until Then
Go after fruits that you can benefit from,
Rob
LOOK THE WAY YOU WANT TO FEEL
Hi fellow warriors! Today’s words are very simple. Look the way you want to feel. It’s just like exercising. You have to work on it in order to see results.
When you look better to “you” it really does help. It lifts your spirits and somehow I don’t know why but it motivates us to do stuff.
I know now we are for the most part stuck indoors so no hair salon, no barber shops and no beauty store but doing this doesn’t have to be a big production.
You can do your nails yourself , do your hair yourself, shave your beard etc. It will improve your mood I guarantee it.
Love yourself guys. God Bless
Robert Ferguson
MS SAFETY
MS safety is a big deal. Hi guys
. One of my thought processes has been to always “plan my route”. This has worked for me for many years and even more so since I’ve been diagnosed almost 6 years now.
Examples of this will be posted in the video I’ve attached 🔽
We can’t walk around the same as we used to unfortunately. We must take the necessary precautions not only for us but also for our love ones. Especially if our love ones include children who look up to us.
Take care of yourselves warriors. ONE LOVE and GOD BLESS.
Robert Ferguson
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS AND DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS
Hi guys. So recently I’ve started to notice a more rapid decline in my MS health, so I’ve decided to take a more aggressive response to my issues.
My issues include more joint pains, less balance, having more speech impediments and the list goes on and on.
So I’ve decided not only to become more radical with my eating habits but to add the use of supplements.
I’ve added (in terms of supplements). Iron, magnesium, fulvic acids, black seed oil and fish oil along with my usual vitamin D and vitamin B12 daily supplements.
We must do all that we can to not only fight this disease but to get our bodies to function the way God intended it to. Let’s not wait for “crisis mode”.
I for many years worked on the road (blue collar) and for many years took the easy way out. It’s way easier to just grab something quick on the road. I’m sure a lot of us can relate but watching the world go by is enough of a wake up call for me and hopefully for you as well.
So healthier lifestyle and eating full speed ahead. It feels weird but necessary. God bless.
Robert Ferguson
How I got diagnosed?
To try and wrap this in a nutshell: I was a road service technician for 17 years (I changed tires, unlocked cars, jump starts, fuel deliveries, battery installations etc).
One day I was in the process of changing a tire when suddenly I found myself on my back looking up at the sky. I immediately jumped up thinking what just happened but ignored it and kept doing what I was doing.
Over the following few weeks this became more frequent so I decided to go to my doctor who after a few tests referred me to an ENT (ear nose and throat doctor). He recommended to me a procedure they do that realigns the crystals in my ear that should fix the issue I was having which was balance.
To make a long story short. I eventually got referred to a neurologist who then diagnosed me with multiple Sclerosis. I documented my whole journey in my first book (Rob The Roadside Driver). My third book which I’m currently working on now will tell the narrative of “after the diagnosis”.
This summer August 2020 will make 6 official years of diagnosis. In this blog I will dedicate all my posts to Multiple Sclerosis with the hope that we can help each other through living with this disease.
Feel free to ask questions or give your suggestions as this one of the reasons for this outlet and community.
God bless
Robert Ferguson