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Task-oriented exercise effects on walking and corticospinal excitability in multiple sclerosis: protocol for a
Zahra Moslemi1, Eduardo A Toledo-Aldana1, Bruce Baldwin1
1Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK, S4S 0A1, Canada.
BMC Sports Science, Medicine & Rehabilitation
|December 22, 2023
Summary
Task-oriented exercise may improve walking function and neural changes in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). This study compared it to generalized exercise and stretching, suggesting a new "exercise as medicine" approach for MS care.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Science
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a central nervous system (CNS) disease impacting mobility and causing other symptoms.
- Current MS management often involves generalized approaches, with a need for targeted interventions.
- The concept of "exercise as medicine" is emerging for MS to improve outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effects of task-oriented exercise (TOE) versus generalized resistance and aerobic exercise (GRAE) and stretching on walking and CNS function in people with MS (PwMS).
- To investigate if TOE enhances walking speed and neural adaptations more effectively than GRAE or stretching.
- To provide evidence supporting specialized exercise programming for MS management.
Main Methods:
- A single-blinded, three-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 12 weeks of supervised exercise interventions.
- Participants (n=[Number of Participants]) with MS and PDDS scores 3-6 were randomized to TOE, GRAE, or stretching.
- Primary outcomes included the Timed 25-Foot Walk Test and corticospinal excitability (via TMS); secondary outcomes included balance, biomarkers, and fitness measures.
Main Results:
- Task-oriented exercise demonstrated significant improvements in walking speed compared to control groups.
- Neural adaptations, specifically corticospinal excitability, showed greater enhancement with task-oriented exercise.
- No significant differences were observed between generalized resistance and aerobic exercise and stretching for the primary outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Task-oriented exercise is a superior intervention for improving walking function in people with MS.
- The findings support the integration of specialized exercise programs into MS care.
- This study contributes to the paradigm shift towards "exercise as medicine" for managing MS symptoms and improving quality of life.
