Effectiveness of Exercise Interventions for Pain Reduction in People With Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Can Laparoscopic Surgery Reduce Fatigue in Women with Endometriosis?-A Pilot Study

Background: Fatigue is mentioned as one of the most significant symptoms of endometriosis. The impact of laparoscopic endometriosis surgeries on fatigue remains unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate, for the first time, the effect of laparoscopic surgery in endometriosis patients, with the complete removal of endometriotic lesions, on the severity of fatigue. Methods: This is a single-center prospective pilot study including 58 participants. Participants were recruited at the Tertiary Endometriosis Referral Center of the Medical University of Vienna between February 2020 and November 2021. Thirty patients with histologically proven endometriosis were compared to a control group of 28 patients who underwent a laparoscopy for benign gynecologic conditions other than endometriosis. All participants were interviewed using the Fatigue Severity Scale before their surgery and 6 months afterward. Relationships between variables were established using regression analysis and associations were quantified as odds ratios. Results: Fatigue was significantly more severe preoperatively in patients with endometriosis when compared to controls ((odds ratio (OR): 1.82; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.24-2.67, p < 0.01). Six months postoperatively, the fatigue severity score of endometriosis patients decreased significantly (p < 0.01). In multivariate analysis, fatigue was significantly associated with endometriosis (OR: 4.50, CI: 1.14-17.8, p < 0.05), when adjusted for abdominal pain and menstrual bleeding. Fatigue in patients with endometriosis was not associated with disease stage or the presence of deep endometriosis. Conclusions: Fatigue is a frequent and bothersome symptom in patients with endometriosis. Within our study, we demonstrated for the first time that fatigue responds to surgical treatment. The management of fatigue is crucial to improving patients' quality of life.

Physical Activity Moderates the Association Between Pain and Depressive Symptoms Among Persons with Multiple Sclerosis

OBJECTIVE

The present study examined physical activity as a possible moderator in the relationship between pain and depressive symptoms among persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS).

METHOD

Fifty-three PwMS completed a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery and psychosocial questionnaires. Pain was operationalized as a composite of measures from the Brief Pain Inventory. Metabolic equivalents (METs) of energy expended during self-reported vigorous activity (VA), moderate activity (MA), and walking, as well as global physical activity which combined the three, were derived from the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form. Self-reported physical activity was measured using the Cognitive Health Questionnaire Exercise Scale. Regressions on depressive symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory-Fast Screen) examining both conceptualizations of physical activity, pain, and their interactions were explored.

RESULTS

Regression analyses revealed that interactions between pain and each measure of global physical activity were significant (p = .01). Simple effects tests revealed that pain only influenced depressive symptoms in PwMS with low global physical activity METs (p < .001) and low overall self-reported physical activity (p < .001). The separate interactions between pain and METs during self-reported VA, MA, and walking on depressive symptoms were not significant.

CONCLUSION

We found that global physical activity moderated the relationship between pain and depressive symptoms in MS. Specifically, pain influenced depressive symptoms in PwMS who engaged in less overall physical activity. These results highlight the importance of screening PwMS for pain and suggest that behavioral interventions aimed at increasing overall lifestyle physical activity may be useful in improving depressive outcomes in PwMS with pain.

Pharmacological and Non-pharmacological Approaches for the Management of Neuropathic Pain in Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the central nervous system and can cause various types of pain including ongoing extremity pain, Lhermitte's phenomenon, trigeminal neuralgia, and mixed pain. Neuropathic pain is a major concern for individuals with multiple sclerosis as it is directly linked to myelin damage in the central nervous system and the management of neuropathic pain in multiple sclerosis is challenging as the options available have limited efficacy and can cause unpleasant side effects. The literature search was conducted across two databases, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Eligible studies included clinical trials, observational studies, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and narrative reviews. The objective of this article is to provide an overview of literature on pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies employed in the management of neuropathic pain in multiple sclerosis. Pharmacological options include cannabinoids, muscle relaxants (tizanidine, baclofen, dantrolene), anticonvulsants (benzodiazepines, gabapentin, phenytoin, carbamazepine, lamotrigine), antidepressants (duloxetine, venlafaxine, tricyclic antidepressants), opioids (naltrexone), and botulinum toxin variants, which have evidence from various clinical trials. Non-pharmacological approaches for trigeminal neuralgia may include neurosurgical methods. Non-invasive methods, physical therapy, and psychotherapy (cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction) may be recommended for patients with neuropathic pain in multiple sclerosis. The choice of treatment depends on the severity and type of pain as well as other factors, such as patient preferences and comorbidities. There is a pressing need for healthcare professionals and researchers to prioritize the development of better strategies for managing multiple sclerosis-induced neuropathic pain.

Nonpharmacological interventions and outcomes in the management of complications of human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1-related myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis: A systematic review

Background

Human T-cell lymph tropic virus type 1 (HTLV-I)-related myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (TSP) is a progressive inflammatory process affecting the spinal cord that occurs as a result of HTLV 1. The use of nonpharmacological approaches has always been one of the treatment strategies in these patients, but disagreement about these interventions and their results has led to their limited use. Therefore, this study aimed to identify nonpharmacological interventions and their consequences in these patients.

Materials and Methods

We followed the Cochrane Handbook for systematic reviews of interventions. The present report is organized according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. This study was conducted at PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus, among all published studies by December 30, 2021. Keywords were: HTLV-1, Human T-lymph tropic virus 1, HTLV-I-associated myelopathy, HAM/TSP, tropical spastic paraparesis, nonpharmacological intervention, nonpharmacological treatment, massage, physiotherapy, acupuncture, acupressure, and exercise. The quality of the studies was assessed using JADAD.

Results

Of 288 articles, 11 were eligible for data extraction published between 2014 and 2021. 90/9% of studies were randomized clinical trials. 81/8% of articles were of high quality. The total sample size was 253 people, of which 137 (54/15%) were women. Approaches such as exercise and motion therapy, electrotherapy, behavioral therapy, and virtual reality can be used for these patients. With these interventions, results such as improved mobility and balance, physical condition, pain, quality of life, muscle spasticity, maximum inspiratory pressure, and urinary symptoms can be achieved.

Conclusion

The most common physical therapy method used in studies was active and passive body movements, which are associated with positive results for patients. Due to the small sample size in this group of studies, it is necessary to conduct more clinical trials for more accurate conclusions. Furthermore, due to the limited number of studies that have used electrical stimulation or combined intervention packages, it is not possible to say with certainty what effect these methods have on patients. It is necessary to conduct more clinical trials.

Widespread Pain With Nociplastic Features is an Independent Predictor of Low Physical Activity in People with Multiple Sclerosis

Exploring the relationship between underlying pain mechanisms and physical activity could inform interventions to optimize physical activity in persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). This cross-sectional nationwide survey examined whether pain phenotype is a significant predictor of self-reported physical activity in PwMS. The study included 938 persons with a self-reported diagnosis of MS (93% reported neurologist-diagnosed MS) who completed surveys of demographic, clinical information, pain intensity, indicators of underlying pain mechanisms (Fibromyalgia Survey Criteria and painDETECT), and physical activity (Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire). Responses were used to categorize pain phenotypes as widespread pain with nociplastic features (WPNF), neuropathic, nociceptive, or mixed (neuropathic/WPNF). Following current physical activity guidelines, self-reported physical activity was categorized as active or insufficiently active/sedentary. Applying multivariable logistic regression, participants with no chronic pain had 2.30 higher odds of being physically active when compared to participants with chronic mixed pain. Similarly, participants with neuropathic and nociceptive pain had, respectively, 1.90 and 1.66 higher odds of being physically active compared to individuals with mixed pain. Higher scores on the fibromyalgia survey criteria (operationalized in this study as an indicator of WPNF) were a significant independent predictor of insufficient physical activity (OR = .93, P < .01). Findings indicate that experience and phenotype of chronic pain, in particular WPNF, are associated with physical inactivity in PwMS. This suggests that assessing pain phenotype may be important to identify individuals at risk of inadequate physical activity and may guide the tailoring of behavioral therapeutic approaches to help PwMS achieve the recommended level of physical activity. PERSPECTIVE: This study examines the association between pain mechanism and physical activity in multiple sclerosis. These findings highlight the possibility that a basic screening for pain mechanism could offer clinically useful information without requiring extensive neurobiological phenotyping and may inform the development of behavioral interventions to enhance physical activity in multiple sclerosis.

Virtual reality facilitated exercise improves pain perception: A crossover study

STUDY OBJECTIVE

Both virtual reality (VR) and exercise are recognized for their analgesic and anxiolytic properties. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the ability of VR-facilitated exercise to modulate pain.

DESIGN

Within-subject cross-over clinical trial.

SETTING

The Stanford Chariot Program conducted this study at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford (LCPHS).

PATIENTS

Healthy participants meeting inclusion criteria were recruited by volunteer solicitation from LCPHS.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were randomized by hand dominance and subjected to a standardized cold pressor test with no VR or exercise. After a 5-min wash-out period, participants repeated the test on their other hand while experiencing a VR-facilitated exercise condition. Pain sensitivity, pain tolerance, and sympathetic activation data were collected during both conditions.

MEASUREMENTS

Pain sensitivity was scored 0-10 and collected every 30 s. Pain tolerance was recorded as the duration a participant could endure the painful stimuli. Sympathetic activation was measured by skin conductance response density (SCRD) and recorded in 30 s epochs by a biosensor. In all analyses, data were nested by participant.

MAIN RESULTS

Forty-one participants completed both interventions. Pain sensitivity was reduced in the VR-facilitated exercise condition (p < 0.0001). There was no difference in pain tolerance between conditions. While both conditions resulted in an increase in sympathetic activity, SCRD was higher at all time points in the VR-facilitated exercise condition.

CONCLUSIONS

The reduction in pain sensitivity indicates VR-facilitated exercise results in improved pain perception. VR-facilitated exercise may be especially useful for patients with chronic pain or other conditions requiring physical therapy, where pain may be exacerbated by exercise.

The MoxFo initiative - outcomes: Outcome measures in studies of exercise training in multiple sclerosis; scoping review of reviews and classification according to the ICF framework

BACKGROUND

The number of published studies of exercise training in multiple sclerosis (MS) has grown exponentially with increasing numbers of outcomes capturing exercise effects. This has complicated the selection of relevant indicators and interpretation of intervention effects.

OBJECTIVES

The Outcomes subgroup of the MoXFo initiative aimed to (1) identify outcome measures and biomarkers in studies of exercise training in MS; (2) systematically map retrieved outcomes to International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) categories; (3) identify gaps where relevant ICF categories have been omitted.

METHODS

Electronic databases and registers were searched from 2010 to July 2020 to identify systematic reviews or meta-analyses of controlled trials of exercise training on any outcome in MS. Retrieved outcomes/biomarkers were mapped to the corresponding ICF category.

RESULTS

Eighty-one review articles reporting 235 different outcomes were included. The outcomes corresponded to 15 chapters and 45 categories within the ICF. Outcomes mapped primarily to body function (30 categories) and activities and participation (9 categories) components. Few outcomes mapped to body structures (2 categories) or environmental factors (1 category).

CONCLUSION

This sets the stage to develop a resource for researchers/clinicians that will aid in the selection of appropriate outcomes/biomarkers when examining exercise effects in MS.

Validity and reliability of physical activity measures in multiple sclerosis

PURPOSE

The purpose was to evaluate the psychometric properties of physical activity measures in persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS).

METHODS

Adults with multiple sclerosis were recruited, n = 30 (validation) and n = 57 (test-retest). Steps measured with PiezoRX, Yamax SW200 and ActiGraph GT9X Link (AGlink) and time in different positions measured with AGlink were validated against data from video analysis. Psychometric properties of the Physical Activity and Disability Survey - Revised Swedish version (PADS-R(Sw)) was evaluated.

RESULTS

The most valid measures were AGlink using the low-frequency extension filter, and PiezoRX with median absolute percentage errors (MeAPEs) of 0.9-3.1% and 1.3-3.3%. The MeAPEs were higher for Yamax SW200 (2.9-21.0%), AGlink display (3.6-44.8%) and AGlink normal filter (8.9-48.9%), indicating low validity. AGlink was not valid in measurements of sitting (MeAPE 12.0-12.5%) or lying (MeAPE 31.0-41.7%). The correlation between PADS-R(Sw) and AGlink steps was r = 0.492 (p = .009). The relative reliability of PADS-R(Sw) was ICC_2,1 0.85 (CI 0.76-0.91), and absolute reliability was SEM 0.54.

CONCLUSION

AGlink and PiezoRX were valid measures of steps in PwMS. The questionnaire PADS-R(Sw) was valid, with high relative reliability, but its absolute reliability was unsatisfactory.

The influence of COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on the physical activity of people with multiple sclerosis. The role of online training

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 pandemic has affected people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) on various levels. Pandemic lockdown influenced the access to typical measures of physical activity such as out-door training or gym exercises.

METHODS

We performed a survey assessing physical activity during pandemic lockdown among PwMS treated in our MS center. The questionnaire encompassed questions regarding physical activity before and during lockdown, including the employment of online technologies.

RESULTS

The survey was completed by 262 PwMS. Physical activity before lockdown was declared by 74.4% of PwMS, regular exercises were declared by 30.9% of participants. Among physically active PwMS 50.5% limited their physical activity during the COVID-19 lockdown. The decrease in physical activity was reported more frequently by PwMS with higher levels of disability, particularly declaring regular exercises before lockdown. In the opinion of 39,7% of PwMS online training could replace standard exercises, however only 19,9% of PwMS were actively looking for online training during the lockdown. The interest in online exercise was greatest in the group ≤30 years of age and EDSS ≤2. Synchronous exercises were the preferred online training, particularly among PwMS with EDSS≥4.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate a need for systematic educational and organizational measures, promoting physical activity among PwMS and acknowledging pandemic conditions.

Effectiveness of non-pharmacological rehabilitation interventions in pain management in patients with multiple sclerosis: Systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive inflammatory and autoimmune neurological disease caused by inflammation and demyelination of the central nervous system. Pain is a typical symptom of central nervous system demyelination, affecting 63% of adults with MS. Recently, the role of non-pharmacological pain management in patients is growing because the non-pharmacological interventions are considered safe, affordable, easy, and accessible. However, to date, no systematic reviews or meta-analyses have comprehensively examined the therapeutic effects of the variety of non-pharmacological therapeutic interventions in the management of pain in patients with MS.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to conduct a systematic review with meta-analysis to assess the effectiveness of the non-pharmacological rehabilitation interventions in pain management in patients with MS.

METHODS

A comprehensive search using PubMed, Cochrane, and Science Direct databases was performed and included all randomized controlled trials, randomized cross-over trials, and quasi-experimental trials assessing the effect of non-pharmacological interventions for managing pain in patients with MS. This study was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines of a systematic review and pair-wise meta-analysis. Meta-analyses were performed by calculating the standardized mean difference at a 95% confidence interval using Review Manager software.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine papers were included in the systematic review, and only 22 of them were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled analysis showed a significant effect of neuromodulation and transcranial direct current stimulation on pain intensity reduction in patients with MS (SMD -0.51, 95% CI -0.51 to -0.09, P = 0.02), (SMD -0.67, 95% CI -1.18 to -0.16 P = 0.01), respectively. The analysis showed significant improvement in pain intensity in patient with MS after mind-body therapies (SMD -0.45, 95% CI -0.82 to -0.7, P = 0.02), mindfulness (SMD -0.55, 95% CI -0.96 to -0.14, P = 0.009), hypnosis (SMD -0.88, 95% CI -1.30 to -0.46, P = 0.0001), trigger point therapies (SMD -0.83, 95% CI -1.65 to -0.01, P = 0.05) and cognitive behavioral therapy (SMD -0.64, 95% CI -1.18 to -0.11, P = 0.02). However, there is no significant effect of relaxation therapy on pain reduction in patients with MS (SMD -0.82, 95% CI -1.94 to 0.31, P = 0.15).

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicated that the majority of the non-pharmacological rehabilitation interventions showed potential therapeutic effects in reducing pain intensity in patients with MS.

Active Videogaming Interventions in Adults with Neuromuscular Conditions: A Scoping Review

This review synthesized active videogaming (AVG) intervention literature over a 10-year period (2010-2020) for people with neuromuscular conditions (18-64 years of age), examining interventions that aimed to improve health and secondary conditions, physical activity, and outcomes quality of life (QOL). Systematic searches yielded 40 eligible studies. The major groups were multiple sclerosis (40%) and stroke (33%), and the study participants had mostly mild-to-moderate disability who were able to play games in a standing position. Research designs primarily involved randomized controlled trials (65%) and pre/post-trial design without a control group (28%). The majority of interventions used commercial off-the-shelf gaming systems, such as Nintendo Wii and Microsoft Kinect. Studies reported significant improvements in health outcomes, specifically in balance (n = 30/36), mobility (n = 24/27), and cardiorespiratory fitness (n = 6/8). Positive changes were also seen in secondary conditions (n = 8/12), physical activity (n = 3/4), and QOL outcomes (n = 8/16). AVG research for people with neuromuscular conditions has grown in both quantity and quality but several gaps remain. Study findings provide a roadmap for future AVG trials on understudied populations, and highlight technology and targeted outcomes as drivers of future intervention research.

Physiotherapy interventions may relieve pain in individuals with central neuropathic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Objectives:

To evaluate the effectiveness of any form of physiotherapy intervention for the management of central neuropathic pain (cNeP) due to any underlying cause.

Methods:

Multiple databases were searched from inception until August 2021. Randomised controlled trials evaluating physiotherapy interventions compared to a control condition on pain among people with cNeP were included. Methodological quality and the quality of evidence were assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database Scale and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation tool, respectively.

Results:

The searches yielded 2661 studies, of which 23 randomised controlled trials met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analyses. Meta-analyses of trials examining non-invasive neurostimulation revealed significant reductions in pain severity due to spinal cord injury (SCI; standardised mean difference (SMD): −0.59 (95% confidence interval [CI]: −1.07, −0.11), p = 0.02) and phantom limb pain (weighted mean difference (WMD): −1.57 (95% CI: −2.85, −0.29), p = 0.02). The pooled analyses of trials utilising acupuncture, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and mirror therapy showed significant reductions in pain severity among individuals with stroke (WMD: −1.46 (95% CI: −1.97, −0.94), p < 0.001), multiple sclerosis (SMD: −0.32 (95% CI: −0.57, −0.06), p = 0.01), and phantom limb pain (SMD: −0.74 (95% CI: −1.36, −0.11), p = 0.02), respectively. Exercise was also found to significantly reduce pain among people with multiple sclerosis (SMD: −1.58 (95% CI: −2.85, −0.30), p = 0.02).

Conclusion:

Evidence supports the use of non-invasive neurostimulation for the treatment of pain secondary to SCI and phantom limb pain. Beneficial pain management outcomes were also identified for acupuncture in stroke, TENS in multiple sclerosis, and mirror therapy in phantom limb pain.

Therapeutic Effects of the Pilates Method in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review

The Pilates Method is a rehabilitation tool with verified benefits in pain management, physical function, and quality of life in many different physiotherapy areas. It could be beneficial for patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). The aim of the study was to summarize current evidence for the effectiveness of Pilates in pwMS. A comprehensive search of Cinahl, Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro, and PubMed (including PubMed Central and Medline) was conducted to examine randomized controlled trials (RCT) that included Pilates intervention in multiple sclerosis. The PEDro scale and the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool, RoB-2, were used to evaluate risk of bias for RCT. Twenty RCT (999 patients) were included. Ten were of good quality (PEDro), and seven had low risk of bias (RoB-2). Pilates improves balance, gait, physical-functional conditions (muscular strength, core stability, aerobic capacity, and body composition), and cognitive functions. Fatigue, quality of life, and psychological function did not show clear improvement. There was good adherence to Pilates intervention (average adherence ≥ 80%). Cumulative data suggest that Pilates can be a rehabilitation tool for pwMS. High adherence and few adverse effects were reported. Future research is needed to develop clinical protocols that could maximize therapeutic effects of Pilates for pwMS.

Impact of a Virtual Wellness Program on Quality of Life Measures for Patients Living With Multiple Sclerosis During the COVID-19 Pandemic

BACKGROUND

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) were vulnerable to the effects of physical inactivity during the COVID-19 pandemic. As patients returned to in-person visits, providers reported seeing increased weakness, balance issues, falls, worsening pain, and spasticity. Social isolation also contributed to increased stress, depression, and anxiety. This study explored whether attending virtual wellness programs was associated with improvements in standard quality of life questionnaire scores for patients with MS.

METHODS

The purposive convenience sample consisted of 43 patients in the treatment group and 28 in the control group. Patients in the treatment group attended 2 monthly programs for 6 months and completed a demographic questionnaire, the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale, and the Medical Outcomes Study Pain Effects Scale (PES). Patients requested additional topics, resulting in 5 additional programs. The control group consisted of patients who chose not to attend the programs but agreed to complete the questionnaires.

RESULTS

In comparing questionnaire responses (6 months minus baseline) among the participants in the treatment group, an association was found between higher meeting attendance and improvements in emotional well-being (P = .038), pain on the PES (P = .011), mindfulness on the SF-36 pain scale (P = .0472), and exercise on the PES (P = .0115).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that a virtual wellness program may provide beneficial emotional support, physical exercise, and health promotion activities resulting in improved quality of life in people with MS. In addition, mindfulness and exercise programs may be beneficial in pain management.

Exercise for Neuropathic Pain: A Systematic Review and Expert Consensus

Background: Neuropathic pain (NP), a severe and disruptive symptom following many diseases, normally restricts patients' physical functions and leads to anxiety and depression. As an economical and effective therapy, exercise may be helpful in NP management. However, few guidelines and reviews focused on exercise therapy for NP associated with specific diseases. The study aimed to summarize the effectiveness and efficacy of exercise for various diseases with NP supported by evidence, describe expert recommendations for NP from different causes, and inform policymakers of the guidelines.

Design: A systematic review and expert consensus.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed. We included systematic review and meta-analysis, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which assessed patients with NP. Studies involved exercise intervention and outcome included pain intensity at least. Physiotherapy Evidence Database and the Assessment of Multiple Systematic reviews tool were used to grade the quality assessment of the included RCTs and systematic reviews, respectively. The final grades of recommendation were based on strength of evidence and a consensus discussion of results of Delphi rounds by the Delphi consensus panel including 21 experts from the Chinese Association of Rehabilitation Medicine.

Results: Eight systematic reviews and 21 RCTs fulfilled all of the inclusion criteria and were included, which were used to create the 10 evidence-based consensus statements. The 10 expert recommendations regarding exercise for NP symptoms were relevant to the following 10 different diseases: spinal cord injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, cervical radiculopathy, sciatica, diabetic neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, HIV/AIDS, and surgery, respectively. The exercise recommended in the expert consensus involved but was not limited to muscle stretching, strengthening/resistance exercise, aerobic exercise, motor control/stabilization training and mind-body exercise (Tai Chi and yoga).

Conclusions: Based on the available evidence, exercise is helpful to alleviate NP intensity. Therefore, these expert consensuses recommend that proper exercise programs can be considered as an effective alternative treatment or complementary therapy for most patients with NP. The expert consensus provided medical staff and policymakers with applicable recommendations for the formulation of exercise prescription for NP. This consensus statement will require regular updates after five–ten years.

[Pain in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders]

Multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders are autoimmune inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system, which can lead to a multitude of neurological complaints and pain syndromes. Pain may be an acute symptom during disease exacerbation as well as a chronic symptom, whereby the latter sometimes substantially reduces the quality of life. The etiology of pain is very heterogeneous but the rapid differential diagnostic classification is decisive in order to be able to initiate a differentiated treatment strategy. Chronic pain must be differentiated from pain as a possible (early) symptom of an acute disease exacerbation, classified in more detail and individually treated. These include central neuropathic pain, pain associated with spasticity, musculoskeletal pain due to excess loading and pain as a side effect of immunotherapy and in the context of comorbidities. The treatment strategies are often insufficiently evidence-based due to the lack of data.

Explaining the facilitators of quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis: a qualitative study

Background

In patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), the disease’s complications and manifestations affect a person’s ability to function normally and leads to further disruptions in their education, family life, job opportunities, and daily life activities, thereby reduce their quality of life. Different factors as facilitators or inhibitors affect the quality of life in patients with MS. This study aimed to explain the facilitators of quality of life in patients with MS.

Methods

This research applied qualitative methodology, utilizing semi-structured interviews with individuals with MS and their family members/caregivers. Purposeful sampling was done among people who referred to Isfahan MS Association. Participants were selected with a maximum variation in terms of gender, age, education, occupation and marital status. Interviews were continued to reach data saturation. The gathered data were concurrently analyzed by the content analysis technique. MAXQDA software version 10 was used for data management.

Results

Saturation was reached after eighteen interviews. A total of three main categories and 8 sub-categories were extracted from the data. The identified facilitators were: personal facilitators (leisure time and coping strategies), interpersonal facilitators (exercise therapy, social support and social organizations) and needs and suggestions for improvement (family therapy, adopting urban architecture and facilities, and supportive systems).

Conclusions

Based on these findings, in order to improve the quality of life in patients with MS, we should pay attention to factors such as leisure time, spirituality and positive thinking, exercise, social support and social organizations. Health professionals, the government, community and families could help to improve patients’ quality of life through adapting urban architecture, holding family therapy sessions and providing supportive systems.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12883-021-02213-9.

Physical exercise improves quality of life, depressive symptoms, and cognition across chronic brain disorders: a transdiagnostic systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

We performed a meta-analysis to synthesize evidence on the efficacy and safety of physical exercise as an add-on therapeutic intervention for quality of life (QoL), depressive symptoms and cognition across six chronic brain disorders: Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia and unipolar depression. 122 studies ( = k) (n = 7231) were included. Exercise was superior to treatment as usual in improving QoL (k = 64, n = 4334, ES = 0.40, p < 0.0001), depressive symptoms (k = 60, n = 2909, ES = 0.78, p < 0.0001), the cognitive domains attention and working memory (k = 21, n = 1313, ES = 0.24, p < 0.009), executive functioning (k = 14, n = 977, ES = 0.15, p = 0.013), memory (k = 12, n = 994, ES = 0.12, p = 0.038) and psychomotor speed (k = 16, n = 896, ES = 0.23, p = 0.003). Meta-regression showed a dose-response effect for exercise time (min/week) on depressive symptoms (β = 0.007, p = 0.012). 69% of the studies that reported on safety, found no complications. Exercise is an efficacious and safe add-on therapeutic intervention showing a medium-sized effect on QoL and a large effect on mood in patients with chronic brain disorders, with a positive dose-response correlation. Exercise also improved several cognitive domains with small but significant effects.

Prioritizing progressive MS rehabilitation research: A call from the International Progressive MS Alliance

Background:

People with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience myriad symptoms that negatively affect their quality of life. Despite significant progress in rehabilitation strategies for people living with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), the development of similar strategies for people with progressive MS has received little attention.

Objective:

To highlight key symptoms of importance to people with progressive MS and stimulate the design and implementation of high-quality studies focused on symptom management and rehabilitation.

Methods:

A group of international research experts, representatives from industry, and people affected by progressive MS was convened by the International Progressive MS Alliance to devise research priorities for addressing symptoms in progressive MS.

Results:

Based on information from the MS community, we outline a rationale for highlighting four symptoms of particular interest: fatigue, mobility and upper extremity impairment, pain, and cognitive impairment. Factors such as depression, resilience, comorbidities, and psychosocial support are described, as they affect treatment efficacy.

Conclusions:

This coordinated call to action—to the research community to prioritize investigation of effective symptom management strategies, and to funders to support them—is an important step in addressing gaps in rehabilitation research for people affected by progressive MS.

Cross-cultural adaptation, reliability, and validity of the Turkish version of the SymptoMScreen

PURPOSE

The study aimed to translate and cross-culturally adapt the SymptoMScreen into Turkish and evaluate its reliability and validity.

METHODS

One hundred nine MS patients were included in the study. SymptoMScreen was translated into Turkish according to the standardized guidelines and cross-culturally adapted. For construct validity, SymptoMScreen was compared with the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis-Related Symptom Checklist (MS-RS), and Beck Depression Scale (BDS) by Spearman's correlation coefficient. Thirty patients refilled SymptoMScreen one week later, and the test-retest reliability was analyzed by the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). Internal consistency was evaluated with Cronbach's alpha coefficient. The standard error of measurement (SEM₉₅) and the minimum detectable change (MDC₉₅) were calculated.

RESULTS

Test-retest reliability and internal consistency of the SymptoMScreen were excellent (ICC = 0.925, α = 0.914). SEM₉₅ and MDC₉₅ were 3.28 and 9.29, respectively. There was a strong correlation between the SymptoMScreen with the MS-RS and EDSS (r₁= 0.908, p < 0.00; r₂= 0.511, p < 0.001). Besides, the SymptoMScreen was moderately correlated with BDS (r = 0.584, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The Turkish version of the SymptoMScreen is a reliable and valid questionnaire for multiple sclerosis patients.

Clinical perspective on pain in multiple sclerosis

Pain is an important and frequent symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS), which leads to a low quality of life, increased disability level, and lack of employment and mental health. Recently, studies have shown increased interest in pain in MS and there is a growing evidence of its prevalence. However, the literature suffers from lack of experimental studies focusing on pain reduction. This topical review summarizes the current knowledge about pain in MS with its definitions, assessments, treatments and rehabilitation within a holistic perspective.

Persons with Multiple Sclerosis Exhibit Strength Asymmetries in both Upper and Lower Extremities

OBJECTIVE

To characterize strength asymmetries in the upper and lower extremities in persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) with severe disability, and examine associations between asymmetries and functional, symptomatic, and participatory outcomes.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional.

SETTING

University research laboratory.

PARTICIPANTS

25 PwMS with Expanded Disability Status Scale scores between 6.0-8.0.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Bilateral strength and asymmetry scores for muscle groups at the ankle, knee, and shoulder joints in addition to grip strength.

RESULTS

Significant differences were observed between all contralateral strength measures, with asymmetry scores ranging between 20-32%. A high prevalence of asymmetry (i.e., score>10%) was observed for all strength measures, with 92% of participants having four or more affected measures. Significant associations were observed between dorsiflexion asymmetry and physical health-related quality of life (ρ= -0.69; p<0.001), and between shoulder flexion asymmetry and lower extremity function (ρ= -0.62; p=0.001). Plantarflexion (ρ= 0.61; p=0.003) and knee flexion (ρ= 0.63; p=0.002) asymmetry were significantly associated with lower extremity functional asymmetry.

CONCLUSIONS

A high prevalence of asymmetry in the upper and lower extremities was observed, with asymmetry scores exceeding those previously reported in PwMS with mild-to-moderate disability. Rehabilitation strategies should consider a full body approach to address strength asymmetries.

Exercise and Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated disease of the central nervous system (CNS) with an estimated prevalence approaching 1 million adults in the United States. The disease pathogenesis and resulting damage express as dysfunction (e.g., walking and cognitive impairment) and symptoms (e.g., fatigue and depression) that compromise quality of life (QOL) and full participation. There has been a steadily increasing body of research on the outcomes of exercise among persons with MS, and this has accelerated sharply over the past decade. The current chapter provides a review of exercise and its outcomes, safety, and prescription in MS. This chapter initially reviews the evidence for benefits of exercise based principally on meta-analyses and literature reviews. The chapter then reviews evidence on the safety of exercise in MS and lastly provides guidelines for exercise prescription in MS. Collectively, this chapter serves as an overview and reference for researchers and clinicians interested in the benefits, safety, and prescription of exercise in MS.

Pain Management in Multiple Sclerosis: a Review of Available Treatment Options

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease with no curative treatment available. While recent years have ushered in many effective new disease-modifying therapies for MS, they have not obviated the need for symptomatic treatments for MS-related pain. In this review, we discuss available approaches to control pain, which is one of the most common complaints MS patients have.

RECENT FINDINGS

The most recent research in this topic is directed towards non-pharmacologic interventions including water exercises, yoga and cannabis. More trials are being conducted on neuromodulation for MS-related neuropathic pain, including transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Pain control for MS patients is challenging, considering the progressive and relapsing remitting nature of the disease, however, it is a very important aspect of it's management, as it improves mobility, exercise tolerance, concomitant depression and overall quality of life. Future research should focus on the use of neuromodulation in controlling MS pain.

Combined upper limb and breathing exercise programme for pain management in ambulatory and non-ambulatory multiple sclerosis individuals: part II analyses from feasibility study

PURPOSE

The present small semi-controlled feasibility study investigated a possible efficacy of a combined upper limb and breathing exercise programme in managing pain in ambulatory and non-ambulatory patients with EDSS from 0.0-8.0.

METHOD

People with MS (N = 19) were enrolled in this single-blind randomized controlled study and divided into 2 groups: exercise group (5 ambulatory, 5 non-ambulatory; Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), 1.0-8.0) and related control group that performed no exercise (4 ambulatory, 5 non-ambulatory; EDSS, 1.0-7.5). The exercise group performed combined upper limb and breathing exercises in a group led by a physiotherapist (2 days/week, 60 min/session) accompanied by independent home exercises (3 days/week, ≥ 20 min/session). Participants underwent measures of pain level (visual analogue scale) for physical pain, functional independence of daily activities (Barthel index) and handgrip strength (HGS) for dominant (D) and non-dominant (ND) hand evaluated by a dynamometer before and after the 4-week period by the blinded assessor.

RESULTS

The VAS for pain showed statistically significant group-by-time interaction only in non-ambulatory (p = .049) individuals, but with large intervention effects on both subgroups (ambulatory, p = .159; non-ambulatory, d = 0.97). Functional independence in daily activities (Barthel index) showed statistically non-significant group-by-time interaction in ambulatory (p = .195, d = 0.89) and non-ambulatory (p = .102, d = 1.64) individuals, but despite the absence of statistical significance, there were large intervention effects. Handgrip strength was significantly improved for both hands in ambulatory (D, p = .012; d = 2.07; ND, p = .025, d = 1.77) and only non-dominant hand in non-ambulatory individuals (D, p = .288, d = 0.83; ND, p = .012, d = 2.21).

CONCLUSION

This small pilot study provides preliminary proof-of-concept data supporting low-intensity upper limb and breathing exercise programme for potential reduction of pain and improvement of functional independence in both ambulatory and non-ambulatory individuals with MS in a larger sample and that strengthening the upper limbs might be an additional pain relief mechanism.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NTC03222596.

Advances in the Understanding and Management of Chronic Pain in Multiple Sclerosis: a Comprehensive Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system that can lead to severe physical, cognitive, and neurological deficits that often manifest in young adults. Central neuropathic pain is a common presenting symptom, often prompting patients to seek treatment with opioids, NSAIDS, antiepileptics, and antidepressants despite minimal effectiveness and alarming side-effect profiles. Additionally, spasticity occurs in more than 80% of MS patients and is an important consideration for further study in treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS

Related to inconsistencies in pain presentation and clinical reporting, current studies continue to investigate clinical patient presentation to define chronic pain characteristics to optimize treatment plans. Although often neuropathic in origin, the complex nature of such pain necessitates a multimodal approach for adequate treatment. While psychiatric comorbidities typically remain unchanged in their severity over time, physical conditions may lead to worsening chronic pain long-term, often due to decreased quality of life. The prevalence of neuropathic pain is ~ 86% in patients with multiple sclerosis and most commonly presents as extremity pain, trigeminal neuralgia, back pain, or headaches. As MS symptoms are frequently unremitting and poorly responsive to conventional medical management, recent attention has been given to novel interventions for management of pain. Among these, medicinal cannabis therapy, targeted physical therapy, and neuromodulation offer promising results. In this review, we provide a comprehensive update of the current perspective of MS pathophysiology, symptomatology, and treatment.