Change in Aerobic Fitness of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis During a 6-Month Training Program

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-1997

Keywords

Aerobic fitness, Exercise, Oxygen uptake, Rehabilitation

Abstract

Twenty-three individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) participated in a 6-month exercise training program; 11 ambulatory (AMB) and 8 semi-ambulatory (SEMI). Four persons with MS served as non-exercising controls (C). A test of maximal aerobic power (V̇O(2max)) was administered at baseline to all subjects. AMB and SEMI subjects exercised on alternating days for 30 minutes, at 55-60% V̇O(2max) using either a commercially available recumbent or upright combination leg/arm bicycle ergometer. At the end of 12 and 24 weeks, exercising subjects were re-evaluated. The C group was only re-evaluated at 24 weeks. The results show that the AMB and SEMI groups experienced a +20% and +5% improvement in V̇O(2max), respectively. The C group averaged a 12% decline in V̇O(2max) during the 6 months. These data demonstrate the possibility that although exercise improves cardiovascular fitness of some persons with less severe MS, this beneficial response may not apply to the more severely impaired patient. Nevertheless, improved cardiovascular health at any level may enhance the overall rehabilitation outcome of many individuals in this patient population.

Journal Title

Sports Medicine, Training and Rehabilitation

Volume

7

Issue

3-4

First Page

265

Last Page

272

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1080/15438629709512089

First Department

Rehabilitation Services

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