Exercise in the management of persons with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

For decades, persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) were counseled to avoid excessive physical activity and exercise because of concerns about worsening disease activity. Recent studies indicate that, not only can those with MS tolerate physical exercise, but that it is helpful in managing symptoms, preventing complications and comorbidities, and may possibly have neuroprotective actions. This article reviews previous studies on the effects of different exercise protocols in people with MS, and provides summaries of suggested exercise regimens that may be appropriate and beneficial for this patient population.

Physical exercise in myasthenia gravis is safe and improves neuromuscular parameters and physical performance-based measures: A pilot study

“…Based on studies of other patients with chronic diseases, for example RA, MS, and COPD, regular exercise is a cornerstone of care in addition to pharmacological treatment. [6][7][8] Beneficial effects of the training regimen in this study included increased aerobic capacity and changed body composition to less fat and more muscle mass, which is in accordance with earlier studies on weight/body composition outcomes of physical activity. 19 Additionally, high-resistance strength training causes hypertrophy of skeletal muscles, more of arm muscles than leg muscles, in previously untrained individuals.…”

“…Nevertheless, this study supports that MG patients with long disease duration do not worsen from a physical exercise regimen. Based on studies of other patients with chronic diseases, for example RA, MS, and COPD, regular exercise is a cornerstone of care in addition to pharmacological treatment …”

The role of rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis—is it worth it?

“…Evidence suggested that exercise therapy may actually impact disease course in persons at risk for MS and after the disease develops, it might be potentially considered as a disease modifying therapy [5]. Nevertheless, the evidence is inconclusive regarding the efficacy of using exercise therapy for the rehabilitation of people with progressive MS.…”

“…The use of a standing frame produced significant improvements in passive hip and ankle range of motion and a trend toward improvement in ankle spasticity [1,5].…”

“…However, when the level of disability increases, the efficacy of physical therapy is less compelling [5,6].…”