Michelle’s experience with Multiple Sclerosis began in a way that would frighten anyone; losing her vision in her right eye due to optic neuritis.
Learning that the likely progression of this is linked to a lifelong neurological condition was, undoubtedly, scary.
Multiple Sclerosis, also known as MS, is a neurological condition that affects more than 37,000 Australians and nearly 3 million people worldwide. In Australia, women are diagnosed far more often than men, making up around 75% of cases.*
MS develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks myelin, the protective coating that surrounds nerve fibers that helps signals travel between the brain and the rest of the body. When myelin is damaged, nerves can become scarred and these signals become disrupted, making it harder for the brain to communicate with different parts of the body.
In Michelle’s case, the breakdown of myelin around her optic nerve meant a loss of visual signals between the brain and eye.
Following her diagnosis in 2011, Michelle started experiencing the physical impact of living with MS firsthand as her symptoms started to develop: “I can’t do things I used to do like driving, going for walks, and runs (I was an avid marathon and city to surf runner”
Symptoms can vary widely between people and every person’s experience with MS is different. Most commonly, people experience a loss of motor function, muscle weakness, sensory symptoms (including numbness, tingling or burning sensations), and increased fatigue.
Thankfully, regular movement can play a powerful role in managing symptoms of MS. Staying active can help rebuild strength, support recovery after a relapse, improve cardiovascular fitness, and keep energy levels more stable throughout the day.
For Michelle, this includes a blend of upper‑ and lower‑limb strengthening, FES cycling, Xcite stepping, and cardio work. Her NeuroMoves program focuses on helping her walk without a walker, improving her gait by reducing foot drop and circumduction, and feel more confident on stairs. Because she has strong functional capacity, her sessions can safely challenge her strength and gait training even further.
Since beginning her program in September 2025, Michelle has already seen some amazing results, and her progress reflects the effort she puts in. Her Exercise Physiologist, Atticus, shares: “One thing I am particularly proud of Michelle for is her improved stair climbing ability; Michelle recently went on a cruise with family and friends and was able to participate in all activities, even when she was required to travel up and down stairs cases. Michelle constantly comes into the clinic with a smile on her face and is already ready for whatever exercise and challenges we have for her. She is an outstanding client and is a true example of hard work improving her quality of life.”
Michelle has also felt the benefits firsthand: “I have seen my walking improve and my legs have less spasms after my sessions, they have also taught me how to exercise outside of clinic with an at home program utilising my own stim machine.”
Michelle’s advice for anyone in a similar position? Staying positive and proactive: “utilise your support networks and get on the front foot with exercise. While it may feel there are no options, it is vital for you to stay moving to avoid progression”.
Getting Started with Exercise for MS
NeuroMoves offers a range of support for people with MS, including one-to-one sessions, group classes, hydrotherapy and FES-based programs.
Get in touch and speak to one of our experienced Exercise Physiologists or Physiotherapist about how we can support you, or a loved one, with MS.
*Source: MS Australia
