HIGH-VOLUME AND HIGH-INTENSITY FUNCTIONAL TRAINING IN PATIENTS WITH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS: A PILOT STUDY ON FEASIBILITY AND FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY.

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility of a high-volume and high-intensity functional training programme in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), and to explore whether functional capacity improves. A further objective was to explore changes in muscle strength and aerobic capacity.

Methods: This pilot study comprised a 12-week intervention, with an 8-week follow-up period. The intervention consisted of 3 weekly 3-h training sessions, comprising functional resistance-, endurance-, and skills training. Feasibility (questionnaire), functional capacity (Timed Up and Go Test, 10-Meter Walk Test, and 6-Minute Walk Test), aerobic capacity (cardiopulmonary exercise test) and muscle strength (1 repetition maximum (RM) leg press) were evaluated.

Results: Seven patients completed the study. Patients attended a mean of 93% of the training sessions. One adverse event was reported, which was not related to the training programme. Patients scored positive or very positive on 86% of the feasibility aspects and scored an overall grade of 8.9 on a scale of 1-10 regarding satisfaction with the training programme. Functional capacity, aerobic capacity, and muscle strength seemed to be improved after the training programme, but the improvements were not always sustained.

Conclusion: This new high-volume and high-intensity functional training programme appeared to be feasible in patients with MS, and may improve their functional capacity, aerobic capacity and muscle strength. A large-scale controlled trial over a longer period of time is required to evaluate the added value of the training programme.