Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune
disease of the central nervous system, characterized by inflammation,
demyelination, and motor impairments that significantly affect quality of life.
Despite existing immunomodulatory treatments, chronic fatigue and functional
limitations remain largely unaddressed symptoms, highlighting an urgent need
for complementary therapies.
In this context, this study explores resistance
training (RT) as a non-pharmacological approach to improve muscle strength,
functional performance, and quality of life in women with MS.
How does resistance training improve functional
abilities and quality of life in MS?
Forty women were selected and divided into
three groups:
- Healthy
control group (HCON);
- MS
group without resistance training (MS+non-RT);
- MS
group with resistance training (MS+RT).
Participants were assessed before and after a
12-week intervention. Tests included measurements of muscle strength,
functional abilities, and biological markers related to oxidative stress (MDA,
SOD, GPx). Quality of life and fatigue were also evaluated using validated
questionnaires.
The MS+RT group showed a significant
improvement in muscle strength and functional abilities, surpassing both the MS+non-RT and HCON
groups. A notable reduction in fatigue and an improvement in quality of life
were also observed in this group. However, changes in oxidative stress
markers were not significant, suggesting that the benefits of resistance
training may be more closely related to physiological and functional mechanisms
rather than modulation of oxidative stress.
Resistance training: a promising path to
transform MS management
This study highlights the benefits of
structured and supervised resistance training in improving motor
functions, reducing fatigue, and enhancing quality of life in women with
MS. While the effects on oxidative stress require further investigation, the
findings suggest that muscle strengthening could be a key strategy in
the personalized management of this complex disease.
