Wheelchair and Fatigue
Hello all,
I’m newly diagnosed and my MS is very active. I have a question about how to navigate wheelchair/mobility aid use: I’m an elementary teacher and I’m working through fatigue management, energy conservation, and heavy/weak limbs (on top of several other symptoms). By lunchtime I feel ill and completely wiped out that some days the thought of making it to 3 pm is a big hurdle. I’m not being treated yet (thanks insurance), but working on it. Any advice on how to manage wheelchair use when it’s not needed 100% of the time? And before it’s mentioned, I already do yoga (getting back to it again after a flare up) and a cane/walking stick isn’t enough for the fatigue and coordination. I often power through, but some days I just need help and Idk how to navigate this new territory. I’m not really sure what I’m trying to ask, lol, but any advice or stories are appreciated!
Thank you!
Hello @Ematt0426. I am in the UK so not sure how things work in schools over there; I work at a UK school. Hopefully, this period will recalibrate when things settle and you start treatment. Not sure what it's called there, but you should request an Occupational Health assessment through your school. They will be able to advise you and the school which reasonable adjustments might be made to help you at work. Powering on through when you're under-powered won't help in the long run. Reasonable adjustments might include adjusted hours, rest breaks, using classrooms which are more accessible, adjustments to your role. Elementary school does require a different approach, as it's more hands-on. Have you seen a physiotherapist for advice? They might be able to come up with exercises which strengthen you furtther. All the best!