Abstract
Background: Balance and gait impairment are common in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). This disabling deficit can be present even in people with mild neurological disability.
People with MS are encouraged to perform some regular physical activity for improving fitness and muscle strength. Pilates is popular exercise system focusing upon controlled movement, activation of core muscles and breathing.
The aim of the study was compare effect of short-term Pilates exercise on balance and gait performance in group of people with mild MS. Methods: Participants received 10 weeks of training sessions of Pilates exercise (supervised by physiotherapist with experience in Mat Pilates exercise), control group has no change of lifestyle regimen.
Balance was evaluated using Berg Balance Scale, MiniBest test, Timed Up and Go test, Single leg stance and Step test on baseline and after completing of training. Gait performance was assessed using Timed 25 Foot Walk test, The 2-minute walk test and by GAITRite instrument.
Results: Thirty-three participants completed the study: 21 people in Pilates group (21 women, mean age 38.5 y, mean disease duration 6 y, mean EDSS 2.5) and 11 people in control group (1 man, mean age 43 y, mean disease duration 9 y, mean EDSS 2.9). After completing 10 weeks of Pilates exercise participant significantly improved in balance (MiniBest test p=0.025, TUG p=0.041) and walking endurance (the 2-minute walk test p=0.002).
Gait performance in normal walk measured by GAITRite was improved in both groups. Conclusion: Pilates could be offered as possible exercise to people with mild MS to improve balance.
However, for treatment serious balance deficit individual physiotherapy should be prescribed.