Multiple Sclerosis and Progressive Resistance Training

Multiple Sclerosis - Inflammatory, Neurological and Muscular Adaptations to Progressive Resistance Training

The purpose of this study is to investigate underlying mechanisms possibly explaining the beneficial effects of progressive resistance training for people with multiple sclerosis.

Exercise in general, and progressive resistance training (PRT) in particular, is regarded as an important tool in the rehabilitation of people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Previous studies have reported positive effects of PRT on muscle strength, functional capacity, fatigue and quality of life. Also, a possible disease modifying effect has been proposed. However, the underlying physiological mechanisms that might explain these beneficial effects and the possible effects on disease progression are unresolved. Additionally, none of the previous studies has been concerned with the possible impact of MS progression type, gender and/or medication. The purpose of this randomized, controlled, gender stratified trial is to investigate underlying mechanisms possibly explaining the beneficial effects of progressive resistance training for people with multiple sclerosis.

By use of an isokinetic dynamometer, EMG and stimulation equipment the following will be assessed for the knee extensors; Maximal muscle strength Surface EMG Central activation ratio

Walking performance will be assessed by the; Two minute walk test 25-foot walk test Chair rise test Stair climb test

The self-reported measures contains questionnaires regarding; Fatigue (Fatigue Severity Scale, Modifies Fatigue Impact Scale) Health-Related Quality of Life (SF-36) Depression (Major Depression Inventory) Disease impact (MS Impact Scale 29) Walking Performance (MS Walking Scale 12)

MRI-scans of the head will provide the following measurements; Brain volume (analysed with SIENA) Plaque incidence

Inclusion Criteria: Diagnosed relapsing-remitting MS according to the McDonald criteria Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) between 2.0 and 5.5 Be able to train twice a week at the University Use interferon based medication Exclusion Criteria: Alcohol abuse, Alzheimer's and pacemaker (or other metallic implant) Comorbidities like cardiovascular-, respiratory-, orthopaedic or metabolic diseases Having had an attack in a period of 8 weeks prior to the start of the intervention period Having an attack during the intervention period Pregnancy Systematic resistance training in a period of 3 months prior to the start of the intervention period. Training adherence of less than 85%.