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Adapted Resistance Training Improves Strength in Eight Weeks in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
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An Overview of Physical Exercise Program Protocols and Effects on the Physical Function in Multiple Sclerosis: An
Martina Sortino1, Luca Petrigna1, Bruno Trovato1
1Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Science, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy.
Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology
|November 21, 2023
Summary
Physical activity programs can improve quality of life for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). This umbrella review analyzed studies on MS and exercise, finding positive effects on physical function and highlighting the need for standardized protocols.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive neurological disease affecting a significant and growing population, particularly females.
- Physical activity is recognized as a low-cost, accessible intervention to enhance the quality of life for individuals with MS.
- Existing research on physical activity interventions for MS shows considerable heterogeneity in study designs and protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses evaluating physical activity interventions in multiple sclerosis.
- To analyze intervention protocols and their effects across different types of multiple sclerosis.
- To identify the need for a standardized physical activity intervention for this population.
Main Methods:
- Systematic search of electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus) for systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials.
- Inclusion of studies published up to December 22, 2022, focusing on multiple sclerosis and physical activity.
- Narrative analysis of study quality and results, acknowledging heterogeneity in populations, designs, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- The review identified significant heterogeneity across the included studies regarding participant characteristics, intervention protocols, and outcome measures.
- A majority of the analyzed studies reported positive effects of physical activity interventions on the physical function of individuals with multiple sclerosis.
- Despite positive findings, variations in study methodologies limit direct comparisons and the establishment of definitive protocols.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity interventions demonstrate a positive impact on the physical function of people with multiple sclerosis.
- There is a critical need for future research employing standardized protocols and homogenous populations to validate and refine physical activity interventions.
- The findings support the potential for physical activity to be prescribed as a therapeutic measure for multiple sclerosis management.
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