[Cognitive training combined with aerobic exercises in multiple sclerosis patients: a pilot study]

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• Evidence on cognitive rehabilitation techniques for multiple sclerosis (MS) remains inconsistent.
• Optimizing cognitive functions is crucial for managing MS progression and improving quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare a combined physical and cognitive training program against a physical-only training program.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of combined training in enhancing cognitive functions in MS patients.

Main Methods:

• An experimental study involving 32 MS patients divided into two groups: combined training (n=16) and aerobic exercise only (n=16).
• A six-week intervention incorporating cognitive tasks (TaDiCS®) and aerobic exercises.
• Cognitive performance assessed using the Brief Repeatable Battery of Neuropsychological Test and Stroop Test; emotional state measured by the Beck Depression Inventory.

Main Results:

• Significant intergroup differences favoring combined training were observed in learning, visuospatial long-term memory, attention, and inhibitory control.
• Intragroup analysis revealed significant improvements in these cognitive variables, plus information processing speed, within the combined training group.
• The combined training group also demonstrated a significant improvement in emotional state.

Conclusions:

• Combined cognitive and aerobic exercise training is an effective strategy for enhancing cognitive performance in multiple sclerosis.
• This integrated approach shows promise for improving both cognitive and emotional aspects of MS management.