A pilot project of using an online Pilates programme for multiple sclerosis patients during the Covid-19 pandemic
Abstract
Aim: This pilot study aimed to practically verify the extent to which it is possible to replace group rehabilitation exercises for people with multiple sclerosis with an online exercise program implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic. Another objective was to document possible obstacles to this form of telerehabilitation for its further use in the future.
Among other things, we monitored the effect of this exercise activity on selected anthropometric parameters and the functional abilities of the participants. Methods: A total of 9 women aged 36 to 69 years (the average age being 53.4 +- 11 years) with mild to moderate neurological disability (the average EDSS was 2.9 +- 1.65, all probands with preserved abiliy to walk without aids) participated in the eight-week-long online exercise program.
The women exercised twice a week for 40 minutes. Before and at the end of the exercise program, the pro-bands were tested using simple functional tests (Sit to Stand and SingleLeg Stand) and their basic anthropometric parameters (weight, height, waist circumference) were recorded.
Results: All probands completed the exercise program without complications. The available means of communication permitted for detailed demonstrations of exercise techniques, checking of correct execution of the exercises, patient support, and communication among the participants and their subsequent feedback.
After completing the program, the participants showed significant changes in the following parameters: their average weight decreased from 67.77 +- 12.36 kg to 67.22 +- 12.44 kg (p = 0.042), on average, their waist circumference decreased from 86.66 +- 13.52 cm at the beginning of the program to 83.77 +- 14.05 cm at the end of the program (p = 0.029). There was also a change in the Sit to stand test results with the average figures going from 18.7 +- 11.33 s before the start of the program to 13.05 +- 5.02 s (p = 0.028) upon completion of the program.
There were no statistically significant changes recorded in the SingleLeg stand test on either leg. Conclusion: The study showed that running a group physical activity for MS patients online is feasible.
Active communication between the trainer and the participants proved to be essential. The exercise program had a positive effect on the anthropometric parameters of the participants (reduction of weight and waist circumference) and also in the area of functional tests (Sit to stand test).