Gutierrez GM, Chow JW, Tillman MD, McCoy SC, Castellano V, White LJ. Resistance Training Improves Gait Kinematics in Persons With Multiple Sclerosis.
Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2005;
86:1824-9. [PMID:
16181949 DOI:
10.1016/j.apmr.2005.04.008]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2005] [Revised: 04/06/2005] [Accepted: 04/10/2005] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effects of an 8-week lower-body resistance-training program on walking mechanics in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS).
DESIGN
Repeated-measures design, evaluating gait kinematics before and after an 8-week progressive resistance-training intervention.
SETTING
Biomechanics laboratory and fitness center (with conventional, commercially available resistance-training equipment).
PARTICIPANTS
Eight ambulatory subjects with MS (age, 46.0+/-11.5 y) with Expanded Disability Status Scale scores ranging from 2.5 to 5.5.
INTERVENTION
An 8-week progressive resistance-training program.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
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.
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