Effect of a Combined Program of Strength and Dual Cognitive-Motor Tasks in Multiple Sclerosis Subjects

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of a 24-week combined training program (CTP) based on strength exercises and cognitive–motor tasks performed concurrently in participants with multiple sclerosis. A randomized, controlled intervention study was carried out. In total, 31 subjects with a confirmed diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (14 men and 17 women) were stratified and randomized into an intervention group (17 subjects) and a control group (14 subjects). The intervention group completed three weekly training sessions for 24 weeks, while the control group pursued their normal daily activities. In this program, cognitive–motor tasks were completed at once (dual tasking). A 3D photogrammetry connected to a selective attention system designed for dual tasking while walking was used. Ground reaction forces were measured using two force plates, one for sit-to-stand testing, while the other was used for static force measurement. Postural equilibrium was examined using a stabilometric plate based for Romberg test assessment. The 24-week training program for multiple sclerosis patients improved their static peak force by 11% (p < 0 .05), their rate of force development by 36% (p < 0.05), and their balance (p < 0.05). Performance in daily activities such as walking or sitting-to-standing improved significantly in multiple sclerosis participants. CTP training was effective in reducing the dual-task costs of step length (48%) and walking velocity (54%), as compared to a matched control group.

Effect of dual-task training on balance in patients with multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

“…A total of 60 full-text articles were consulted and only 13 were considered eligible for the qualitative evaluation. 21–33 However, as it was not possible to extrapolate data from four studies, they were not included in the quantitative analysis. 21,25,31,33 Therefore, nine studies reporting complete data for the Timed Up & Go test 22–24,26–30,32 and six for Berg Balance scale were included in the meta-analysis.…”

“…21–33 However, as it was not possible to extrapolate data from four studies, they were not included in the quantitative analysis. 21,25,31,33 Therefore, nine studies reporting complete data for the Timed Up & Go test 22–24,26–30,32 and six for Berg Balance scale were included in the meta-analysis. 22,23,26–28,32 The flowchart of the study selection is available in Figure 1.…”

“…Only four studies were characterised by a shorter duration of the training programme such as 30 minutes. 24,27,31,33…”

“…The 13 studies 21–33 included in the review showed a good methodological quality, with a mean (SD) score of 6.8 (±1.3) according to PEDro score. 17,18 A summary of the risk of bias assessment of the studies is presented in Table 3.…”

“…Both static and dynamic balance were used as the primary outcome measures in nine studies 22,23,25,26,28,30–33 and as a secondary outcome measure in four studies. 21,24,27,29 Timed Up & Go test and Berg Balance scale were found to be the most frequently used outcome measures across studies.…”