Enhancing Cognitive and Motor Performance in Multiple Sclerosis Patients with Cognitive Impairment: A Six-Month Home-Based Neuro-Functional and Resistance Training Intervention
Poster Presentation
Paper ID : 1347-SSRC
Authors
1Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran.
21- Department of Sport Sciences, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran.
3دانشگاه اصفهان
44- Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition, College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, USA.
Abstract
Background and Aim: Cognitive and physical challenges are prevalent in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS), necessitating effective interventions. Amidst global challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, home-based exercise gains significance. This study aims to compare the effects of six months of home-based neuro-functional training (HBNFT) and home-based resistance training (HBRT) on cognitive and motor functions in MS patients with cognitive impairment (CI).
Materials and methods: In this clinical trial, 93 patients (81 females and 12 males) with MS after diagnosis of CI were randomly divided into three groups: HBNFT, HBRT and control. Following one month of center-based training, subjects engaged in thrice-weekly home-based training for six months. Anthropometric indices, EDSS score, fatigue, quality of life, cognitive function (processing speed, learning and memory) were assessed before and after the protocol. Physical function (static and dynamic balance, walking speed, reaction time, walking ability, lower limb function, upper and lower body strength) assessed at baseline, months 1,2,3,4,5 and 6. Two-way analysis of variance (time*group plan) were used for between-group comparisons and repeated measures analysis of variance and Paired-sample t-test were used for within-group comparisons. All statistical analyzes were performed based on the Intention to Treat (ITT).
Result: Higher participation, adherence and safety in the HBNFT compared to the HBRT. Both interventions significantly improved learning (P≤0.014), walking speed (P≤0.013), reaction time (P≤0.001), lower limb function (P≤0.010), walking ability (P≤0.018), lower (P≤0.001) and upper body strength (P≤0.003) and fatigue (P≤0.005) compared to the control. HBNFT significantly improved processing speed (P = 0.042), memory (P = 0.043), static balance (P = 0.023) and EDSS score (P = 0.007) compared to the control group. A significant relationship was observed between physical and cognitive function, fatigue, and quality of life (P≤0.05).
Conclusion: This study advocates for HBNFT as a safer and more effective choice over HBRT in enhancing cognitive and motor functions, reducing fatigue, and improving quality of life in MS patients with cognitive impairment. It underscores the potential advantages of home-based interventions for managing cognitive and motor impairments in the MS population, urging further investigation into long-term effects and refined intervention strategies.
Materials and methods: In this clinical trial, 93 patients (81 females and 12 males) with MS after diagnosis of CI were randomly divided into three groups: HBNFT, HBRT and control. Following one month of center-based training, subjects engaged in thrice-weekly home-based training for six months. Anthropometric indices, EDSS score, fatigue, quality of life, cognitive function (processing speed, learning and memory) were assessed before and after the protocol. Physical function (static and dynamic balance, walking speed, reaction time, walking ability, lower limb function, upper and lower body strength) assessed at baseline, months 1,2,3,4,5 and 6. Two-way analysis of variance (time*group plan) were used for between-group comparisons and repeated measures analysis of variance and Paired-sample t-test were used for within-group comparisons. All statistical analyzes were performed based on the Intention to Treat (ITT).
Result: Higher participation, adherence and safety in the HBNFT compared to the HBRT. Both interventions significantly improved learning (P≤0.014), walking speed (P≤0.013), reaction time (P≤0.001), lower limb function (P≤0.010), walking ability (P≤0.018), lower (P≤0.001) and upper body strength (P≤0.003) and fatigue (P≤0.005) compared to the control. HBNFT significantly improved processing speed (P = 0.042), memory (P = 0.043), static balance (P = 0.023) and EDSS score (P = 0.007) compared to the control group. A significant relationship was observed between physical and cognitive function, fatigue, and quality of life (P≤0.05).
Conclusion: This study advocates for HBNFT as a safer and more effective choice over HBRT in enhancing cognitive and motor functions, reducing fatigue, and improving quality of life in MS patients with cognitive impairment. It underscores the potential advantages of home-based interventions for managing cognitive and motor impairments in the MS population, urging further investigation into long-term effects and refined intervention strategies.
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