Correlation of aerobic capacity and fatigue in multiple sclerosis patients

Abstract

Background: Aerobic capacity (VO2 max) in multiple sclerosis (MS) is considered to be a key physiological measure as it is a strong health and performance predictor. Fatigue is the common disabling symptom in MS patients. The study was done to assess correlation between aerobic capacity and fatigue in MS patients. Methodology: A study was carried on 30 patients of relapse remitting MS across Multiple Sclerosis Society of India, Pune, chapter participate in study and assess for aerobic capacity and fatigue. These patients were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria and were evaluated for assessing aerobic capacity (VO2 max) by 2 min walk test and fatigue by Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS). Results: Our study found aerobic capacity (VO2 max) (17.71 ± 2.966), MFIS (60.712 ± 22.191) with (P < 0.0001, r = −0.7168) and very significant correlation between aerobic capacity with fatigue in MS patients. Conclusion: The study concludes that there is a significant negative correlation of aerobic capacity with fatigue in MS patients.