Feasibility of Low-Load Resistance Training Using Blood Flow Restriction for People With Advanced Multiple Sclerosis: A Prospective Cohort Study

Abstract

Objective The objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction (BFR) for people with advanced disability due to multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods In this prospective cohort study, 14 participants with MS (Expanded Disability Status Scale score = 6.0–7.0; mean age = 55.4 [SD = 6.2] years; 71% women) were asked to perform 3 lower extremity resistance exercises (leg press, calf press, and hip abduction) bilaterally twice weekly for 8 weeks using BFR. Feasibility criteria were as follows: enrollment of 20 participants, ≥80% retention and adherence, ≥90% satisfaction, and no serious adverse events related to the intervention. Other outcomes included knee extensor, ankle plantar flexor, and hip abductor muscle strength, 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test, Berg Balance Scale, Timed 25-Foot Walk Test, 12-Item MS Walking Scale, Modified Fatigue Impact Scale, Patient-Specific Functional Scale, and daily step count. Results Sixteen participants consented, and 14 completed the intervention, with 93% adherence overall. All participants were satisfied with the intervention. A minor hip muscle strain was the only intervention-related adverse event. There were muscle strength improvements on the more involved (16%–28%) and less involved (12%–19%) sides. There were also changes in the 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test (1.9 repetitions; 95% CI = 1.0 to 2.8), Berg Balance Scale (5.3 points; 95% CI = 3.2 to 7.4), Timed 25-Foot Walk Test (−3.3 seconds; 95% CI = −7.9 to 1.3), Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (−8.8 points; 95% CI = −16.5 to −1.1), 12-Item MS Walking Scale (−3.6 points; 95% CI = −11.5 to 4.4), Patient-Specific Functional Scale (2.9 points; 95% CI = 1.9 to 3.8), and daily step count (333 steps; 95% CI = −191 to 857). Conclusions Low-load resistance training using BFR in people with MS and Expanded Disability Status Scale scores of 6.0 to 7.0 appears feasible, and subsequent investigation into its efficacy is warranted. Impact Although efficacy data are needed, combining BFR with low-load resistance training may be a viable alternative for people who have MS and who do not tolerate conventional moderate- to high-intensity training because of more severe symptoms, such as fatigue and weakness. Lay Summary Low-load strength training with blood flow restriction was feasible in people who have advanced disability due to multiple sclerosis. Using blood flow restriction may provide an alternative for people with multiple sclerosis who do not tolerate higher intensity training due to more severe symptoms, such as fatigue and weakness.