Multiple Sclerosis

Introduction

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating autoimmune disease. The Central Nervous System (CNS) is attacked by the immune system; creating lesions that interrupt the correct signaling of nerves, spinal cord, and brain (Frankel, & James, 2011). Inhibiting development of this disease is crucial for maintaining quality of life and fatigue for individuals with MS. There has been vast amount of research on the effect of various exercise training programs, and their benefits for MS (Motl, & Gosney, 2008, Krupp, 2003, Chen, Fan, Hu, Yang, & Li, 2013). Balance, aerobic, and strength training have been the main focus of most researchers; causing an interest in what training mode is most effective for improving quality of life and lower fatigue. It is critical to examine and contrast the effectiveness of a variety of exercise programs, because if training is completed effectively it can drastically improve quality of life and fatigue for individuals with MS.

Developing a greater understanding of the effect of exercise on individuals with MS requires attention to two specific gaps. First, there is limited knowledge on what type of exercise (balance, aerobic or strength training) is most effective. Because exercise is beneficial to improve fatigue and quality of life, it is vital to examine which mode of exercise offers the best results (Motl, 2008). Second, there is limited knowledge on the effectiveness of exercise programs that can be completed at a non-clinical setting (i.e. community or recreation center). It is important to examine non-clinical settings because of realistic application for MS patients.

To address these gaps, focusing on exercise mode and setting is critical. MS patients struggle with fatigue, making it di...

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Tarakci, E., Yeldan, I., Huseyinsinoglu, B. E., Zenginler, Y., & Eraksoy, M. (2013). Group exercise training for balance, functional status, spasticity, fatigue and quality of life in multiple sclerosis: a randomized controlled trial. Clinical Rehabilitation, 27(9), 813-823.