The Effect of Endurance Training on People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Case Report

Signature Grand, Davie, Florida, USA

Purpose. The purpose of this case report is to assess clinical outcomes of an 8-week endurance training program in two patients with multiple sclerosis. Methods. An endurance training program was implemented with two patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Patient A scored 0 on the expended disability scale (EDSS) and Patient B scored 5 on the EDSS. Each patient was assessed using the 6 minute walk test (MWT), the SF-36 Health Status Profile, and the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS). Each patient was cleared for low impact endurance exercise by their respective physician. The endurance training program consisted of: a) In-clinic treadmill walking for patient A and level surface walking program for patient one to two times/week b) A metronome monitored self-paced home walking program one to two times/week and c) instruction in breathing strategies (pursed-lip breathing), self monitoring via rape to perceived exertion (RPE) and energy conservation techniques to be used as needed. Patients kept a diary of activities performed, noting response (RPE) and compliance. Results. After the 8-week training program, both patients showed an increase in endurance, as measured by the 6MWT, reduced fatigue measured by the 6MWT & MFIS, and increased Quality of Life (QoL) measured by the SF-36. Conclusions. Outcomes suggest that an endurance training program can be effective in improving endurance, QoL and decreasing fatigue in high functioning multiple sclerosis patients. Further studies should be directed towards assessing outcomes in larger populations and those with an EDSS level greater than 5.