EXERCISE AS MEDICINE: How Physical Activity Transforms Multiple Sclerosis Management with Dr. Victoria Flores

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In this inspiring episode of Kickback Science, I interview Dr. Victoria Flores, a postdoctoral research associate in the Exercise Neuroscience Research Laboratory at the University of Illinois Chicago, who is helping to revolutionize how we approach multiple sclerosis treatment.

Dr. Flores reveals why exercise isn't just beneficial for MS patients—it's transformative, improving everything from mobility and strength to cognitive function and mental health in ways medication alone cannot achieve.

What you'll learn might surprise you: there are more than 2 million people worldwide living with MS, and exercise interventions are proving to be powerful tools in maintaining and even improving quality of life for these individuals.

Dr. Flores brings exceptional expertise as a Postdoctoral Research Associate specializing in exercise interventions for special populations. 

We explore critical insights about:

• The unique nature of MS and how exercise can be tailored to individual symptoms
• How physical activity helps regenerate neural connections in MS patients
• The behavioral component of exercise adherence and why it matters
• Exercise safety guidelines during MS relapses and flare-ups
• The urgent need to incorporate exercise physiologists into standard MS care

Plus, Dr. Flores discusses the exciting expansion of MS research to include previously underrepresented populations, creating more inclusive and culturally appropriate interventions.

Whether you're living with MS, know someone who is, or work in healthcare, this conversation will transform your understanding of how movement can be medicine for neurodegenerative conditions.

Don't miss this powerful exploration of how exercise is changing lives in the MS community one step—and one rep—at a time.

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