Resistance training improves gait kinematics in persons with multiple sclerosis.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effects of an 8-week lower-body resistance-training program on walking mechanics in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS).


METHODS
Repeated-measures design, evaluating gait kinematics before and after an 8-week progressive resistance-training intervention.


METHODS
Biomechanics laboratory and fitness center (with conventional, commercially available resistance-training equipment).


METHODS
Eight ambulatory subjects with MS (age, 46.0+/-11.5 y) with Expanded Disability Status Scale scores ranging from 2.5 to 5.5.


METHODS
An 8-week progressive resistance-training program.


METHODS
Kinematic gait parameters including knee range of motion, duration of stance, swing, and double-support phases in seconds and as percentages of the stride time, percentage of stride time spent in stance, swing, and double-support phases, step length, foot angle, stride length, velocity, step width, and toe clearance for both the more affected and less affected lower limbs. Isometric strength, 3-minute stepping, fatigue, and self-reported disability were also measured.


RESULTS
After 2 months of resistance training, there were significant increases (P<.05) in percentage of stride time in the swing phase, step length, stride length, and foot angle; and significant decreases (P<.05) in percentage of stride time in the stance and double-support phases, duration of the double-support phase, and toe clearance. Isometric leg strength improved (P<.05) in 2 of the 4 muscle groups tested. Fatigue indices decreased (P=.04), whereas self-reported disability tended to decrease (P=.07) following the training program. Three-minute stepping increased by 8.7%.


CONCLUSIONS
Resistance training may be an effective intervention strategy for improving walking and functional ability in moderately disabled persons with MS.
Gutierrez
Gregory M
GM
Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
Chow
John W
JW
Tillman
Mark D
MD
McCoy
Sean C
SC
Castellano
Vanessa
V
White
Lesley J
LJ
D000328:Adult; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D017079:Exercise Tolerance; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005684:Gait / Q000502:physiology*; D020233:Gait Disorders, Neurologic / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D035002:Lower Extremity / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular / Q000502:physiology*; D012494:Sampling Studies; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D016896:Treatment Outcome