Effects Of Exercise Training On Fitness And Physical Function Of Persons With Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Neurological deficits associated with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) result in impaired mobility and restriction of physical activity causing further deconditioning and increased risk for secondary hypokinetic diseases. PURPOSE To determine the effects of 15 weeks of aerobic exercise training on fitness, functional mobility and balance of individuals with MS. METHODS Thirty-four individuals (24 F, 10 M) with a diagnosis of definite MS (baseline mean [range]; age = 46.4 yrs [20–64], years since diagnosis = 8.7 [1–30], EDSS = 4.6 [2.5–6.5], VO2PEAK = 24.2 ml/kg/min [12–37], HRPEAK = 164 bpm [87–199], peak work rate = 125 watts [45–240] were randomly assigned to EX (combined arm/leg ergometry 3 times/wk, 40 min/session) or NEX (nonexercise) conditions. Subjects underwent maximal exercise testing on a combined arm/leg ergometer to determine VO2PEAK and peak work rate, tests of functional mobility including the Timed Get-Up and Go (GUG), 6-min-walk test (WT), stair climbing test (ST) and tests of balance including the Functional Reach (FR) and Berg Balance Test (BBT) before and after the 15 week aerobic training period. Pre- and post training means were compared using non-parametric Wilcoxon Mann-Whitney Tests. RESULTS Fifteen weeks of training resulted in an increase in VO2PEAK (18%, p < 0.001), peak work rate (25%, p < 0.001), and improvement in GUG (−18%, p < 0.05), and ST (−20%, p < 0.05). FR and BBT scores and WT distance remained unchanged. CONCLUSIONS Aerobic exercise training utilizing arm/leg ergometry increases fitness and work capacity and improves functional mobility of persons with mild to moderate MS. In spite of subjective perception of improved balance by most participants arm/leg ergometry training did not improve balance test scores. Supported by a grant from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.