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Int J Sports Med 2009; 30(4): 245-250
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1105944
Training & Testing

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Effects of Resistance Training in Multiple Sclerosis

F. de Souza-Teixeira 1 , S. Costilla 2 , C. Ayán 3 , D. García-López 4 , J. González-Gallego 1 , J. A. de Paz 1
  • 1Biomedical Science Institute, University of León, León, Spain
  • 2Department of Radiology, Hospital de Leon, León, Spain
  • 3Special Didactics, University, Pontevedra, Spain
  • 4Laboratory of Physiology, European University Miguel de Cervantes, Valladolid, Spain
Further Information

Publication History

accepted after revision September 23, 2008

Publication Date:
06 February 2009 (online)

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Abstract

This study examined the effects of an eight-week progressive resistance training on different strength manifestations, muscle mass and functionality in multiple sclerosis patients. Thirteen volunteered patients (average age 43 years; range 35–51) with a confirmed diagnosis by a neurologist and mild to moderate disability participated twice a week in an eight-week progressive resistance training program after an eight-week control period without training. Intensity ranged from 40–70% of their maximal voluntary contraction. Outcome assessments included magnetic resonance image of the right and left thighs, strength manifestations (maximal voluntary contraction, muscular endurance and power), and functionality by the Up and Go test. All outcome assessments remained unaltered during the eight-week control period. After the eight-week strength training period, isometric strength (+16%, p<0.01), muscular endurance (+84%; p<0.001), maximal power (+51%, p<0.001), muscular hypertrophy from slice 6/27 to slice 11/27 of both thighs (p<0.05), and functionality (p<0.001) improved significantly. Moderate resistance training programs can improve muscle function without injuries and can be a promising therapy to delay the functional deterioration in multiple sclerosis patients.

Key words

power - hypertrophy - exercise - magnetic resonance - mobility

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Correspondence

Dr. F. de Souza-Teixeira

Biomedical Science Institute

Facultad de Ciencias de la Actividad Física y del Deporte

University of León

24071 León

Spain

Phone: +34/627/70 24 85

Fax: +34/987/79 09 48

Email: fsout@unileon.es

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