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Published on: January 29, 2016
Treadmill training for individuals with multiple sclerosis: a pilot randomised trial
M van den Berg1, H Dawes, D T Wade
1School of Health Sciences, University of Birmingham, 52 Pritchatts Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK. m.e.vandenberg@bham.ac.uk
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry
|March 18, 2006
Summary
Aerobic treadmill training improved walking speed and endurance in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). However, benefits diminished after training ceased, and fatigue levels did not change significantly.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease impacting mobility and quality of life.
- Exercise interventions are explored to manage MS symptoms, but optimal protocols require investigation.
- Aerobic training's effects on mobility and fatigue in MS patients need further clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility and effects of 4 weeks of aerobic treadmill training on mobility and fatigue in individuals with MS.
- To assess changes in walking speed, endurance, and self-reported fatigue.
- To evaluate the impact of training cessation on these outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, randomized controlled pilot study involving individuals with MS.
- Participants were assessed at baseline, week 7, and week 12 using timed walk tests, mobility index, and fatigue scale.
- Intervention involved 4 weeks of supervised aerobic treadmill training, with immediate and delayed groups.
Main Results:
- Aerobic treadmill training was feasible and well-tolerated in individuals with MS.
- Significant improvements were observed in walking speed (10m walk time) and endurance (2-min walk distance) post-training.
- Benefits related to walking performance decreased after training cessation (detraining effect).
- No significant changes in fatigue severity scores were detected throughout the study.
Conclusions:
- Aerobic treadmill training can enhance walking performance in individuals with MS.
- The positive effects on mobility are not sustained long-term without continued training.
- Further large-scale randomized clinical trials are recommended to confirm these findings.
