Effect of brain gym on cognition, manual dexterity and bimanual co-ordination in patients with multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease in which the immune system attacks itself causing demyelination of the central nervous system. It usually results in cognitive impairment. Cognitive impairment (CI) has an impact on hand function as manual dexterity and bimanual coordination. Brain gym is one of multiple physical therapy modalities that used to improve cognitive function through increasing blood flow, increasing synthesis and utilization of neurotransmitters, and increased synthesis and release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor.

A total of 36 patients were chosen randomly. These patients were diagnosed with mild CI due to relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). The participants included 20 females and 16 males. Divided into two equal groups, the study group (SG) included 18 patients, and the control group (CG) includes 18 patients. CG received conventional physical therapy program in form of upper extremities coordination training & Strength training exercises. SG received educational kinesiology program, in addition to conventional physical therapy program the same as CG. Treatment was conducted 3times per week, for 4 weeks. The study was starting in January 2024 and continuing until May 2025.Complete clinical evaluations were conducted on all individuals by RehaCom screening modules and Purdue pegboard test.

in comparing among both groups, the study group showed a significant increase in cognitive functions, manual dexterity and bimanual co-ordination, while control group did not improve in cognitive function but improved in manual dexterity and bimanual co-ordination but less than the study group.

brain gym is effective in enhancing cognitive functions, manual dexterity and bimanual co-ordination in RRMS patients with mild CI.