Can I work as an EMT?

Here is My Question:
Hi there, so I passed my NREMT and am now able to get certification to work as an EMT. I am not in shape so I've been working out gently. I was diagnosed with MS last year and during the summer last year I started having difficulty walking. It was like tingling like my leg fell asleep except it hurt and would only stop if I stopped walking or sat down (sometimes it didn't always work then). I've noticed that I have issues with going up stairs on a daily basis and walking at a consistent pace. It's not that I feel those tingles though, it's just painful to move. All of this being said, I would really like to see myself move past this and do something I want to do by being an EMT. Even if I condition my body for the job, is there any reason I should not pursue this job?

Answer:
I am not able to determine if it is feasible for you to perform the duties of an EMT without knowing a lot more about you and your condition. If you have the ability to see a rehabilitation medicine (a Physiatrist) specialist where you live who has expertise in MS, this would be a useful person to see for assistance. By all means reach out to your MS specialist for advice, if you have one, or discuss this issue further with your current neurologist. Neurologists see people with mobility issues on a daily basis and are trained to assist them in meeting their goals of care, including maintaining their desired employment if feasible.
Good luck

Revere P (Rip) Kinkel, MDProfessor Emeritus
Neuroscience Department
University of California San Diego