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Adapted Resistance Training Improves Strength in Eight Weeks in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: January 29, 2016
Supervised resistance training results in changes in postural control in patients with multiple sclerosis
Jessie M Huisinga1, Mary L Filipi, Nicholas Stergiou
1Nebraska Biomechanics Core Facility, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, NE, USA.
Motor Control
|March 10, 2012
Summary
Supervised resistance training improved postural control in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients. This intervention reduced sway variability (RMS) and enhanced sway complexity (Lyapunov Exponent), normalizing balance compared to healthy individuals.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Science
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Postural disturbances are an early symptom in Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
- Impaired postural control significantly impacts patient mobility and quality of life.
- Current rehabilitation strategies for MS often lack targeted interventions for balance deficits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of a supervised resistance training program on postural control in individuals with MS.
- To determine if resistance training can normalize sway variability and complexity in MS patients.
- To assess changes in postural control parameters before and after a 3-month resistance training intervention.
Main Methods:
- 15 patients diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis participated in the study.
- Postural control was assessed using Root Mean Square (RMS) for sway variability and Lyapunov Exponent (LyE) for sway complexity.
- Participants underwent a 3-month supervised resistance training program, with assessments conducted pre- and post-intervention.
Main Results:
- Pre-training, MS patients exhibited significant differences in LyE (p = .000) and RMS (p = .002) compared to healthy controls.
- Following resistance training, MS patients showed a significant decrease in RMS (p = .025) and a significant increase in LyE (p = .049).
- Post-training, no significant differences in postural control were observed between MS patients and healthy controls.
Conclusions:
- Supervised resistance training is an effective intervention for improving postural control in MS patients.
- The training program normalized sway variability and complexity, suggesting a restoration of balance.
- Resistance training holds potential for mitigating balance deficits and enhancing functional mobility in individuals with MS.
