Multiple sclerosis and progressive resistance training: a systematic review

Abstract

Recently progressive resistance training (PRT) has been recognised as an effective tool in the rehabilitation of persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). The objective of this study was to systematically review the literature of PRT studies for persons with MS. A comprehensive literature search (PubMed, SveMed+, Embase, Cochrane, PEDro, SPORTDiscus and Bibliotek.dk) was conducted. Identified papers were rated according to the PEDro-scale. Sixteen studies were included and scored between 3 and 8 of 11 total points on the PEDro-scale, showing a general lack of blinding. Strong evidence regarding the beneficial effect of PRT on muscle strength was observed. Regarding functional capacity, balance and self-reported measures (fatigue, quality of life and mood) evidence is less strong, but the tendency is overall positive. Indications of an effect on underlying mechanisms such as muscle morphological changes, neural adaptations and cytokines also exist, but the studies investigating these aspects are few and inconclusive. PRT has a positive effect on muscle strength for persons with MS. Heterogeneous results exist regarding the effect on functional capacity and self-reported measures probably because of differences in training protocols, samples sizes, type and severity of MS. The area of underlying mechanisms deserves more attention in future research.

Exercise in the management of persons with multiple sclerosis

“…Despite different subject populations and protocols, studies have consistently reported improvements in muscle strength after training. A review of PRT [Kjolhede et al 2012] examined results from six RCTs of PRT and six noncontrolled trials. The RCTs included subjects with expanded disability status scale (EDSS) scores ranging from 1.0 to 6.5, and duration and intensities of training ranging from 2 to 5 sessions/week over 3-20 weeks.…”

Psychometric Properties of a Clinical Strength Assessment Protocol in People with Multiple Sclerosis

“…1 As MSrelated disability progresses to the point where assistance is needed to walk, virtually all people with MS experience weakness. 1 Muscle weakness tends to be more pronounced in the lower than the upper extremities, 2 and it also affects the trunk. 3 Strength training for people with MS can improve strength and has been shown to have an effect on mobility, quality of life, and participation.…”

“…3 Strength training for people with MS can improve strength and has been shown to have an effect on mobility, quality of life, and participation. 2,4,5 Although there are a variety of measures with favorable psychometric properties available to clinicians to assess changes in mobility and participation after strength training, such as the Timed 25-Foot Walk test, the 2-and 6-Minute Walk Tests, and the Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale, 6,7 it can be challenging to quantify changes in strength accurately and reliably in a clinical setting.…”

Benefits of Static Stretching, Pliates® and Elastic Bands Resistance Training on Patients with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: A Longitudinal Study

“…fatigue perception among MS patients [9,10], and resistance training in particular is very useful for this aim [11]. The effects of on MS patients have been studied [12] and incremental improvements in body balance, joint mobility and upper body muscle strength have been observed.…”