Multiple sclerosis: cause and symptoms
The cause of multiple sclerosis is due to the abnormal functioning of the immune system, in which inflammation plays a fundamental role in the damage to the myelin, a substance that covers and protects nerve fibers. As a result, tissue damage is created which gives rise to different symptoms, depending on the location where the episode occurred. The inflammatory component, however, can be reabsorbed, even if scars, called plaques, still remain. Multiple sclerosis can first appear between the ages of twenty and forty but, in exceptional cases even in pediatric age. The female sex is, statistically, the most exposed to risk.
The symptoms are extremely variable and can occur: vision disorders, alterations in strength and sensitivity, tingling, sensation of numbness in the limbs, lack of sensitivity, difficulty perceiving heat and cold, muscle pain, while those affecting the genitourinary sphere there is often difficulty retaining urine or feces and sexual disorders. Lo sport It often appears as an element that is difficult to include in the life of those suffering from multiple sclerosis, but it is of fundamental importance to improve physicality and psychological acceptance.
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Not just health: lo sport it’s inclusion
The memorandum of understanding, signed between the Italian Union of Sport for All and the Italian Multiple Sclerosis Association, aims to support sports practice and research on its benefits in patients with multiple sclerosis. The aim is not only linked to a physical factor of the patient, but rather to implement new initiatives: one of these is to guarantee access to sports facilities for people with MS and disabilities in general. Furthermore, a redevelopment of sports facilities and the distribution of sports equipment for disadvantaged areas.
«Sport, inclusive by definition, is a powerful tool for social participation that supports and develops people’s abilities and functioning, not only at a competitive level but in everyone’s daily life.” declares ithe national president of AISMFrancesco Vacca. «It is an antidote to discrimination, overcoming stereotypes and prejudices that we still have to deal with today, and, in the context of multiple sclerosis and, more generally, of people with serious pathologies, it represents a powerful factor for the quality of life, starting with young people.”
The sport, it not only represents health and well-being but is also a common ground of commitment to overcoming social, cultural and economic barriers.