Gait kinematics and resistance training in Multiple Sclerosis

The target was to evaluate the effects of a 8-week lowerbody resistance-training program on walking mechanics in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). These participants were eight ambulatory subjects with MS (age, 46.0±11.5y) with Expanded Disability Status Scale scores ranging from 2.5 to 5.5. Main outcome measures were kinematical gait parameters including knee range of motion, duration of stance, swing, and double-support phases measured in seconds and as percentage of the stride time, percentage of stride time spent in stance, swing, and double-support phases. After 2 months of resistance training, there were significant increases (P<.05) in percentage of stride time in the swing phase, step length, stride length, and foot angle; and significant decreases (P<.05) in percentage of stride time in the stance and double-support phases, duration of the double-support phase, and toe clearance. Isometric leg strength improved (P<.05) in 2 of the 4 muscle groups tested. Fatigue indices decreased (P=.04), whereas self-reported disability tended to decrease (P=.07) following the training program. In conclusion, resistance training may be an effectiv eintervention strategy for improving walking and functional ability in moderately disabled persons with MS.