High-Intensity Interval Training Effects on People With Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analyses for Exercise Capacity and Fatigue

Abstract

Objective: This study was to examine the effects of high-intensity interval training interventions on exercise capacity and fatigue in people with multiple sclerosis.

Design: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis. PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were systematically searched from inception to January 2024. We reviewed randomized controlled trials that focused their intervention on high-intensity interval training for people with multiple sclerosis to improve exercise capacity or fatigue. Two researchers performed the search process independently in the different databases and assessed methodological quality and risk of bias.

Results: Eleven studies were included in the systematic review and seven of them were meta-analyzed. The overall pooled effect favored high-intensity interval training interventions in improving exercise capacity (standardized mean difference = 0.29; 95% confidence interval = 0.05, 0.53; P = 0.02) and reducing fatigue (standardized mean difference = -0.26; 95% confidence interval = -0.50, -0.02; P = 0.03) in people with multiple sclerosis. We generally found a low risk of bias and a good methodological quality.

Conclusions: The results of this review and meta-analysis provide evidence that high-intensity interval training interventions improved and reduced fatigue in people with multiple sclerosis. High-intensity interval training intervention may be a good option to improve exercise capacity and reduce fatigue of these people.

To claim cme credits: Complete the self-assessment activity and evaluation online at http://www.physiatry.org/JournalCME.

Cme objectives: Upon completion of this article, the reader should be able to: (1) Determine the impact that whiplash-associated disorders have on a patient's life; (2) Identify and recognize the greater benefits of a supervised exercise therapy on recovery after a whiplash injury; and (3) Differentiate between the different exercise protocols conducted (types of exercises and duration) and incorporate therapy appropriately as part of an effective treatment plan.

Level: Advanced.

Accreditation: The Association of Academic Physiatrists is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.The Association of Academic Physiatrists designates this Journal-based CME activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s) ™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Keywords: Exercise Tolerance; Fatigue; High-Intensity Interval Training; Multiple Sclerosis.