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Randall T. Schapiro, MD, FAAN
Dr. Randall (Randy) T. Schapiro grew up in Minnesota and received degrees there as well as in California. He founded the first private-practice comprehensive MS Center in 1977, renamed “The Schapiro Center for Multiple Sclerosis” at the Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology in 2004. Dr. Schapiro has participated in numerous research studies, helped to develop two MS organizations, served on numerous boards and advisory committees, and lectured and written extensively on all topics associated with MS management, both nationally and internationally. His awards include the Can Do Award, the prestigious Starfish Award, the Lifetime Achievement Award by the CMSC, and has been elected to the NMSS Hall of Fame.
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Q:
Should I exercise if I have multiple sclerosis (MS)?
A:
Exercise can be therapeutic and is at least as important for women with MS as for other women. If you have MS, the last thing you want is to develop other health problems—such as obesity, diabetes or heart disease.
People with MS, however, should not "go for the burn" during exercise because overheating can trigger symptoms and worsen fatigue. Some women with MS enjoy exercising in a cool pool, but others find that the bother of driving and changing twice is too fatiguing. A physical therapist can help you design an appropriate exercise program.
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