Author(s): LIBERALI, G., MARTINIS, L., CORREALE, L., DELL’ANNA, S., FILOSA, A., MACHADO, F.A., TAVAZZI, E., BERGAMASCHI, R., PEYRÉ-TARTARUGA, L.A., BUZZACHERA, C.F., MONTOMOLI, C., Institution: UNIVERSITY OF PAVIA, Country: ITALY, Abstract-ID: 2170

Abstract
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurologic disease characterized by motor dysfunction, cognitive impairment, and a pronounced impact on quality of life. Common symptoms include fatigue, ataxia, tremors, spasticity, paralysis, and pain, which often compromise functional aspects such as balance and walking capacity. Non-pharmacologic interventions, such as exercise training, are recommended for individuals with MS and may help alleviate disease-related symptoms. Nordic Walking (NW) is a popular mode of exercise involving walking with hand-held poles. Despite its growing popularity, there is no published evidence on the NW training effects in the MS population. Hence, the present study investigated the NW training and detraining effects on functional status, perceived fatigue, and quality of life in persons with MS.
Methods
Fifteen individuals (4 men and 9 women; mean age: 44 ± 11 yr) with definite relapsing-remitting MS (EDSS score < 4) met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were enrolled in this study. They were trained twice weekly for 8 weeks, followed by 12 weeks of detraining. All participants were tested before and after the intervention period and after training cessation (follow-up). Aerobic endurance (2-min walk test), upper- (handgrip) and lower-body (30-sec chair stand test) muscle strength, gait speed (10-m walk test), and overall functional mobility (timed up and go test) were tested. Perceived fatigue (Modified Fatigue Impact Scale) and quality of life (MS Quality of Life Questionnaire) were also evaluated.
Results
The adherence rate was as high as 81%. There were significant changes in aerobic endurance, lower-body muscle strength, overall functional mobility, and gait speed following the NW intervention (P < 0.05). These changes persisted after training cessation (P > 0.05). In contrast, upper-body muscle strength did not change following the NW intervention (P > 0.05). While quality of life did not change over time (P > 0.05), perceived fatigue was reduced following the NW intervention (P < 0.05). These changes in perceived fatigue, however, did not persist after training cessation (P > 0.05).
Conclusion
Our results suggest that eight weeks of NW training improves functional status, perceived fatigue, but not quality of life, in individuals with MS. Some favorable changes persisted even after training cessation. Such findings encourage exercise professionals and other healthcare providers to support NW training as a feasible and safe approach in the MS population.