HIGH-VOLUME AND HIGH-INTENSITY FUNCTIONAL TRAINING IN PATIENTS WITH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS: A PILOT STUDY ON FEASIBILITY AND FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the feasibility of a high-volume and high-intensity functional training programme in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), and to explore whether functional capacity improves. A further objective was to explore changes in muscle strength and aerobic capacity. Methods This pilot study comprised a 12-week intervention, with an 8-week follow-up period. The intervention consisted of 3 weekly 3-h training sessions, comprising functional resistance-, endurance-, and skills training. Feasibility (questionnaire), functional capacity (Timed Up and Go Test, 10-Meter Walk Test, and 6-Minute Walk Test), aerobic capacity (cardiopulmonary exercise test) and muscle strength (1 repetition maximum (RM) leg press) were evaluated. Results Seven patients completed the study. Patients attended a mean of 93% of the training sessions. One adverse event was reported, which was not related to the training programme. Patients scored positive or very positive on 86% of the feasibility aspects and scored an overall grade of 8.9 on a scale of 1–10 regarding satisfaction with the training programme. Functional capacity, aerobic capacity, and muscle strength seemed to be improved after the training programme, but the improvements were not always sustained. Conclusion This new high-volume and high-intensity functional training programme appeared to be feasible in patients with MS, and may improve their functional capacity, aerobic capacity and muscle strength. A large-scale controlled trial over a longer period of time is required to evaluate the added value of the training programme. LAY ABSTRACT Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder which affects 2.3 million people worldwide. People with MS often have impaired physical fitness, which may induce fatigue. In this pilot study we evaluated a new and high-intensive training program. Patients trained for 12 weeks, three days a week, three hours a day. We explored whether the training program is feasible in MS, and whether patients improve their physical fitness. Seven patients completed the study, and attended on average 93% of the training sessions. Patients scored an overall grade of 8.9 on a scale of 1 to 10 regarding satisfaction with the training program. Physical fitness seemed to be improved, but improvements did not always preserve eight weeks after the training program. We concluded that the training program appears to be feasible in patients with MS, and may improve their physical fitness. However, a large controlled study is necessary to confirm these findings.