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Adapted Resistance Training Improves Strength in Eight Weeks in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: January 29, 2016
Comparing routine neurorehabilitation programme with callisthenic exercises in multiple sclerosis.
Ilke Keser1, Aydin Meric, Nuray Kirdi
1Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey. ilkekeser@yahoo.com
Neurorehabilitation
|August 31, 2011
Summary
Callisthenic exercises show potential as a novel therapy for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, offering benefits in reducing fatigue and improving balance and strength. While not significantly outperforming routine neurorehabilitation, callisthenics present a viable alternative exercise approach.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease impacting balance, muscle strength, and fatigue.
- Current neurorehabilitation programs aim to manage MS symptoms but may have limitations.
- Exploring novel exercise interventions is crucial for improving the quality of life for MS patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effectiveness of callisthenic exercises compared to routine neurorehabilitation in individuals with multiple sclerosis.
- To assess the impact of callisthenics on fatigue, muscle strength, balance, functional status, and psychological well-being in MS patients.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 30 individuals with MS, divided into two groups: one performing 15 callisthenic exercises and the other a routine neurorehabilitation program.
- Both groups engaged in their respective programs three days per week for six weeks.
- Evaluations included the Visual Analogue Scale for Fatigue (VAS-F), muscle strength tests, Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Multiple Sclerosis Functional Composite (MSFC), SF-36, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD).
Main Results:
- Both groups showed significant decreases in fatigue (VAS-F), muscle strength, and balance (BBS) post-intervention.
- The callisthenics group experienced significant changes in anxiety (HAD-A), while the routine group showed significant changes in depression (HAD-D).
- No significant differences were observed between groups in MSFC or SF-36 scores, with a minor exception in upper limb muscle strength favoring the routine group.
Conclusions:
- Callisthenic exercises represent a distinct therapeutic option for multiple sclerosis management.
- Callisthenics may help reduce fatigue and enhance balance and muscle strength in MS patients.
- This exercise modality is considered a potentially beneficial tool for individuals living with multiple sclerosis.
