The Effect of Aerobic Exercise on Cognitive Function and Sleep Quality in Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis

The Effect of Aerobic Exercise on Cognitive Function and Sleep Quality in Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis

In addition to the typical motor and sensory impairments, individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) often experience cognitive dysfunction and sleep disturbances. Cognitive impairment occurs in 40 % - 70% of patients with MS. In addition, sleep problems in individuals with MS are very common, and approximately 50% of patients with MS have a diagnosable sleep disorder. The research believes that aerobic exercise improve cognitive function and improve sleep quality.

Inclusion Criteria:

• diagnosis of relapsing remitting or secondary progressive MS
• score 3-7 on the EDSS
• score < 55 on the Symbol Digit Modalities Test
• score > 5 on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index

Exclusion Criteria:

• history of alcohol/drug abuse or nervous system disorder other than MS
• severe physical, neurological, or sensory impairments that would interfere significantly with testing
• developmental history of learning disability or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
• relapse and/or corticosteroid use within four weeks of assessment
• unable to give consent
• uncorrected vision loss that would interfere significantly with testing
• score less than 24 on MMSE
• Acute ischemic cardiovascular event or coronary artery bypass surgery less than 3 months ago
• Either unable to physically perform the exercise test using the recumbent stepper or demonstrate absolute indications for terminating exercise that follows the American College of Sports Medicine's (ACSM) guidelines
• Uncontrolled blood pressure with medication (BP > 190/110mmHg)