Exercise for people with multiple sclerosis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigating an exercise programme with web-based supporting materials for people with multiple sclerosis
IRAS ID
203589
Contact name
Marianne Hensman
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Birmingham
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Research Summary
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological condition for which there is no cure. Symptoms include weakness, balance and walking difficulties. There is growing evidence of the value of exercise programmes in improving strength, endurance and speed of walking. The current study will aim to devise and test an exercise programme for people with MS which includes cardiovascular, balance and strengthening components. Part 1 involves getting the opinions of people with MS and their healthcare professionals on the exercise programme we have developed For Part 2, participants with MS will be recruited through outpatient clinics at a local NHS trust. They will be assessed to ensure the exercise programme is tailored to their individual needs and will carry out the 12-week programme at home under the guidance of the research team.Summary of Results
People with MS with a range of disability were recruited. All took part in the same exercise programme consisting of leg muscle strengthening, balance exercises, and sessions of walking. Participants were asked to perform each of the three types of exercise at least twice weekly. The participants were divided into an internet group, with access to web-based resources to support their exercise programme and a control group, without access to these web resources. Adherence was good in both the internet and control groups. There was limited use of the website to record exercise. There were small improvements in walking speed, balance and fatigue as well as exercise goal setting and planning. Results suggested that perhaps more contact and support from the researcher would have encouraged participants to exercise at a suitable intensity to achieve health benefits.REC name
West Midlands - South Birmingham Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/WM/0394
Date of REC Opinion
2 Nov 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion