Effects on Balance and Walking with the CoDuSe Balance Exercise Program in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Balance and walking impairments are common challenges for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS).
• These impairments significantly impact daily function and quality of life.
• Effective interventions are needed to address these deficits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a group-based balance exercise program, named CoDuSe (core stability, dual tasking, and sensory strategies).
• To assess the program's impact on balance, postural sway, walking ability, perceived walking limitations, and balance confidence in people with MS.
• To compare the outcomes of the CoDuSe program against a control group receiving no intervention.

Main Methods:

• A single-blinded, randomized, multicenter trial was conducted.
• Participants with MS (N=87) were randomized to either the CoDuSe intervention group or a control group.
• The intervention group underwent a 60-minute CoDuSe program twice weekly for seven weeks, led by physical therapists.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in the intervention group compared to the control group.
• Key improvements included dynamic balance (Berg Balance Scale), reduced postural sway (eyes open), and enhanced walking function (Functional Gait Assessment).
• Participants in the CoDuSe group also reported reduced perceived walking limitations (MS Walking Scale) and increased balance confidence (ABC Scale).

Conclusions:

• The seven-week CoDuSe program demonstrated significant benefits for individuals with MS.
• The intervention effectively improved dynamic balance, walking performance, and balance confidence.
• The CoDuSe program offers a promising group-based exercise approach for managing MS-related balance and walking impairments.