Join the Resistance

We've long known that resistance training (weight lifting) increases muscle strength and bone density and improves balance and coordination in people with unimpaired movement and no disabilities. Now, a study from the University of Florida tells us that resistance training also can help those whose muscles have been weakened by multiple sclerosis walk better and reduce fatigue.

About the Study

In the study, eight patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) ages 25 to 55 participated in a program that focused on exercising the legs, the lower back and the abdomen. Sessions lasted for 30 minutes, two times a week, and there was at least a 48-hour rest between exercise sessions. Conventional weight machines, typical of those found in any gym, were used. Subjects were supervised by trained exercise physiologists during all sessions.

There were no negative outcomes to weight training and no MS flair-ups were reported during the study. At the end of the eight weeks, patients had significantly stronger leg muscles, as evaluated by a machine called the isokinetic dynamometer. All patients were able to walk better, walk longer and reported less fatigue. More than half of the participants continued weight training after the study, Lesley White, PhD, lead researcher, reported.

The good news is that it appears from this study that MS patients are capable of making positive improvements in muscle strength through exercise, just as nonimpaired persons are. To substantiate these findings, a four-month strength-training study is under way.

I asked Dr. White how our readers with MS could get themselves on a weight-training protocol. She suggested that patients first consult with both their neurologist and primary health care physician to talk about weight training and get physician clearance to participate in a weight-training program. Dr. White says that not every MS patient is able to participate in weight training because he/she may have additional medical conditions that prevent it or worsen with weight-bearing exercise -- but, it is certainly worth a conversation about the pros and cons with your doctor. Patients can refer their physicians to the original research, "Resistance training improves strength and functional capacity in persons with multiple sclerosis," published in volume 10 of the journal Multiple Sclerosis (2004).

If the MS patient is a good candidate, the neurologist can refer him to a physical therapist or exercise physiologist who is specifically trained to work with MS subjects and who can custom design a program and supervise sessions.

Be well, 
Carole Jackson
Bottom Line's Daily Health News, August 11, 2005

Source:   Lesley White, PhD, lead researcher, Center for Exercise Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.