The effects of 6-weeks balance training on balance and walking speed in subjects with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Abstract

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common diseases of the central nervous system which result in. It causes demyelination of nerve axons, which can lead to lack of normal action potentials as the central nervous system (CNS) attempts to communicate with the body, and vice versa. Materials and Methods : The purpose of this study The effects of 6-weeks balance training on balance and walking speed in subjects with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). 30 subjects with mild to moderate disability, by Kurtzke scale (Expanded Disability Statues Scale), Participated in this study and randomized into experimental (N=15) and control group(N=15) after being assessed with Berg balance Scale. Timed Walk test was used to assess walking speed. Experimental group involved in balance training 3days a week and control group continued their activity, both groups were tested by walking speed and balance. The results were analyzed by t-test. Level of significant was 0.05. Results: Result of this study Show that balance training has a positive effect balance and walking speed in people with multiple sclerosis . The results revealed a significant difference between control and experimental gropes in balance test (t = 3/23, P<0/05 ) and walking speed test (t= -4/44 , P< 0/05) Conclusion: The results indicated that balance training increased walking speed and balance and seemed to be a useful exercise therapy for MS. Key word : Multiple sclerosis, balance, balance training, walking speed