Effects of High-Intensity Resistance Training on Strength, Mobility, Balance, and Fatigue in Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Contrary to results in other populations, the addition of eccentric training to standard exercises did not result in significantly greater lower extremity strength gains in this group of individuals with MS. Further this training was not as effective as standard exercise alone in improving balance or the ability to ascend and descend stairs. Following data collection, reassessment of required sample size indicates we were likely underpowered to detect strength differences between groups.

The effects of a 12-week leisure centre-based, group exercise intervention for people moderately affected with multiple sclerosis: a randomized controlled pilot study

“…Cakt et al 28 , found a significant improvement in fatigue scores following two months of resisted cycling and balance exercises in people with MS. With similar significant improvements in FSS results also being found by others 27 . Therefore whilst further research is required to determine if exercise reduces levels of fatigue in people with MS, it is important to note there is no evidence that combined exercise increases levels of fatigue.…”

“…These findings link to other studies 23,[26][27][28] involving combined exercise interventions. Cakt et al 28 , found a significant improvement in fatigue scores following two months of resisted cycling and balance exercises in people with MS. With similar significant improvements in FSS results also being found by others 27 .…”

“…Few studies have investigated combined exercise specifically with subjects who are moderately affected with MS 23,27,28 . Freeman and Allison 23 reported that ten weeks of weekly sessions, comprising 30 minutes of general standing exercises, and 30 minutes of floor-based stretching exercises, increased balance, mobility and improved fatigue in their subjects.…”

“…Some studies have investigated combined exercise which includes aerobic, resistance and/or balance components in each session [23][24][25][26][27][28] . In addition the optimum length of the intervention has yet to be clarified, as previous studies have evaluated interventions varying in length from three weeks to over three months.…”

“…Hayes et al 27 carried out a randomised controlled study comparing two groups of subjects, both undertook 12 weeks of combined exercise (aerobic, upper limb resistance, stretching and balance exercise) for 45-60 minutes thrice weekly, with the intervention group also doing lower limb strengthening exercises. They found improvements in strength, fatigue and balance in both groups of subjects.…”