Resistance training improves strength and functional capacity in persons with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of an eight-week progressive resistance training programme on lower extremity strength, ambulatory function, fatigue and self-reported disability in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients (mean disability score 3.79-0.8). Eight MS subjects volunteered for twice weekly training sessions. During the first two weeks, subjects completed one set of 8 -10 reps at 50% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) of knee flexion, knee extension and plantarflexion exercises. In subsequent sessions, the subjects completed one set of 10 -15 repetitions at 70% of MVC. The resistance was increased by 2 -5% when subjects completed 15 repetitions in consecutive sessions. Isometric strength of the quadriceps, hamstring, plantarflexor and dorsiflexor muscle groups was assessed before and after the training programme using an isokinetic dynamometer. Magnetic resonance images of the thigh were acquired before and after the exercise programme as were walking speed (25-ft), number of steps in 3 min, and self-reported fatigue and disability. Knee extension (7.4%), plantarflexion (52%) and stepping performance (8.7%) increased significantly (PB-0.05). Self-reported fatigue decreased (PB-0.05) and disability tended to decrease (P -0.07) following the training programme. MS patients are capable of making positive adaptations to resistance training that are associated with improved ambulation and decreased fatigue.

The Effects of a Yoga Intervention on Balance, Speed and Endurance of Walking, Fatigue and Quality of Life in People with Multiple Sclerosis

“…For example Mostert and Kesselring reported improvement in aerobic threshold, work rate and activity level after 4 weeks of aerobic exercise training (Mostert, 2002). Also treadmill training, aquatic, cycling and resistance training may be beneficial for patients with MS (White, 2004, Newman, 2007, Romberg, 2004, Rampello, 2007, Snook, 2009.…”

“…The symptoms vary widely across MS patients and can include loss of function and feeling in limbs, fatigue, loss of balance and coordination, pain, cognitive dysfunction and depression (Motl, 2005). These and other symptoms reduce individuals' ability to perform activities of daily living (White, 2004). The disease usually begins in early adulthood (ages 20-40 years) but cases can begin in early childhood or after age 65 (Kishiyama, 2002).…”

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

“…The benefits of exercise in those with MS has been investigated in relation to aerobic interventions [11][12][13][14][15] , resistance interventions [16][17][18][19][20][21] or balance interventions 3,22 . Some studies have investigated combined exercise which includes aerobic, resistance and/or balance components in each session [23][24][25][26][27][28] .…”

Physical Rehabilitation in Multiple Sclerosis: General Principles and High-Tech Approaches

“…Лишь в последние годы появились ра-боты, в которых продемонстрирована возможность и це-лесообразность применения в комплексной физической тренировке больных с РС упражнений на сопротивление, тренирующих мышечную массу и приводящих к улучше-нию нейрональной активности [17][18][19], и упражнений на выносливость, способствующих адаптации сердечно-легочной и нервно-мышечной системы [20]. Кроме того, в некоторых исследованиях показано, что помимо по-ложительного специфического действия длительные тре-нировки с упражнениями на сопротивление и выносли-вость приводят к улучшению настроения, качества жизни и снижению ощущения усталости у больных РС [21].…”