Balance Targeted Exercises for Individuals With MS

The Effect of a Targeted Exercise Program on Balance and Postural Responses in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of a postural adjustment, targeted training program on balance ability and postural responses anticipatory postural adjustments (APA) and compensatory postural adjustments (CPA) in individuals with MS

All participants participated in individual training program aimed at improving balance ability and postural adjustments. The training program and individual activities were based on previously published programs and motor learning principles, and consists of 18, 1-hour training sessions over six weeks (3 sessions/week). Training occurred in person 2 days a week (in person training) and at home (home exercise program) 1 day a week, for a total of 3 sessions per week. The duration of training sessions were 60 minutes per session for a total of 1,140 minutes of training. The exercise room temperature was centrally regulated (23.3 degrees C).

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Must be18 to 70 years of age.
2. Medical diagnosis of MS confirmed by a neurologist.
3. Ability to stand independently without any aid for at least 3 minutes.
4. A Patients determined disease steps (PDDS) score of 5 or lower.
5. Normal or corrected-to-normal vision.
6. English or Spanish speaking.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. MS-related exacerbation or medication change in the past two months.
2. Presence of concurrent neurological or orthopedic disorders.
3. Unable to perform the experimental tasks.