Cognitive-motor telerehabilitation in multiple sclerosis (CoMoTeMS): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Clinical Trials
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• Cognitive impairment is a key challenge in multiple sclerosis (MS) management.
• While cognitive rehabilitation aids MS patients, elderly studies suggest combined cognitive-motor rehabilitation is more effective.
• This trial protocol aims to evaluate a novel telerehabilitation approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of a combined cognitive-motor telerehabilitation program.
• To compare its effectiveness against isolated cognitive or motor training for improving working memory in MS.
• To investigate broader cognitive, physical, and quality-of-life outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A two-center, randomized, controlled, and blinded clinical trial (CoMoTeMS-trial).
• 90 MS patients will undergo 12 weeks of either combined telerehabilitation, cognitive-only, or motor-only training.
• Primary outcome: change in digit span backwards; secondary outcomes include various cognitive, physical, and well-being measures.

Main Results:

• The study is a protocol for an ongoing trial; results are not yet available.
• Hypothesis: Significant improvement in digit span backwards is expected in the combined group.
• Secondary outcomes will provide comprehensive data on treatment effects.

Conclusions:

• The combined cognitive-motor telerehabilitation program is hypothesized to be superior for enhancing working memory in MS patients.
• This approach may offer a more effective strategy for managing cognitive deficits in MS.
• Findings will inform future neurorehabilitation strategies for MS.