Multiple Sclerosis and Bone Density

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is and autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, also known as the "central nervous system." Multiple sclerosis affects more women than men and at the onset usually occurs during the ages of twenty to forty.

Multiple sclerosis is a progressive disease, meaning it grows worse with time. It has recently been discovered that many MS patients have a high risk for osteoporosis and osteopenia, which refers to lower than normal bone density but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis.

Researchers have learned that immobility, poor nutrition and steriod medications take a toll on the health and well being of MS patients and the need for exercise is critical for them to have strong bones and good health in general.

As multiple sclerosis patients get older they may be more vulnerable to bone fractures, which can be catastrophic for these patients. Since MS occurs during their younger years most doctors are not overly concerned about testing for bone density. With women being at a higher risk for MS while still in the childbearing age, neurologists are not likely to test for bone density because their focus is more involved in treating the symptoms of the disease.

Patients with MS should pay close attention to their diet, therefore, dietary changes are necessary for important nutrients and a few minutes a day of sitting or walking in the sunshine will give an additional boost to your vitamin D which works together with calcium to strengthen your bones.

Calcium and vitamin D are very important bone-building nutrients. Most Americans with or without MS should be getting a diet richer in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, nuts, seeds and olive oil. Your neurologist may need to prescribe supplements for Vitamin D and calcium to assure you are getting an adequate amount of bone strengthening nutrients.

Note: Vitamin D is required for the body to absorb calcium.

Those with MS need to get some weight-bearing exercise several times a week. The exercises can be very simple and do not need to be strenuous.

One woman in her fifties that was blind and could not walk without assistance, used a non-electric treadmill for walking, an elastic band for stretching and soup cans for weights, for upper arm strength.

Swimming and walking are safe exercises for most patients, however, weight lifting and stretching exercises are acceptable for some if they have the ability to engage in a more strenuous exercises.

Sources: A family member, neurology now.com