Randomized controlled trial of physical activity, cognition, and walking in multiple sclerosis

J Neurol. 2014 Feb;261(2):363-72. doi: 10.1007/s00415-013-7204-8. Epub 2013 Dec 10.

Abstract

The present study adopted a randomized controlled trial design and examined the effect of a physical activity behavioral intervention on cognitive and walking performance among persons with MS who have mild or moderate disability status. A total of 82 MS patients were randomly allocated into intervention or wait-list control conditions. The intervention condition received a theory-based program for increasing physical activity behavior that was delivered via the Internet, and one-on-one video chat sessions with a behavior-change coach. Participants completed self-report measures of physical activity and disability status, and underwent the oral Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) and 6-minute walk (6MW) test before and after the 6-month period. Analysis using mixed-model ANOVA indicated a significant time × condition × disability group interaction on SDMT scores (p = 0.02, partial-η (2) = 0.08), such that persons with mild disability in the intervention condition demonstrated a clinically meaningful improvement in SDMT scores (~6 point change). There was a further significant time × condition interaction on 6MW distance (p = 0.02, partial-η (2) = 0.07), such that those in the intervention condition demonstrated an increase in 6MW distance relative to those in the control group. The current study supports physical activity as a promising tool for managing cognitive impairment and impaired walking performance in persons with MS, and suggests that physical activity might have specific effects on cognition and non-specific effects on walking performance in this population.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cognition / physiology*
  • Data Interpretation, Statistical
  • Disability Evaluation
  • Exercise Therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Motor Activity / physiology*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / therapy*
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Patient Compliance
  • Psychomotor Performance / physiology
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Walking / physiology*