Low-Load Resistance Training With Blood Flow Restriction in People With Multiple Sclerosis and Advanced Disability: A Randomized Control Trial
VA Office of Research and Development
Summary
There currently is a lack of evidence to support exercise interventions in people with advanced disability due to MS (i.e., need assistance to walk or use a wheelchair). This project proposes to study a strength training program using blood flow restriction (BFR) in people with advanced disability due to MS. BFR uses a device that partially blocks blood flow to the exercising limb and causes a response in the muscle which can replicate the effects of high-intensity training using much lower intensities. This is ideal for people with MS who have advanced disability, as they often cannot tolerate higher intensity exercise due to severe weakness and fatigue. By studying BFR training in people with advanced disability due to MS, the investigators hope to help improve strength, mobility, fatigue, and quality of life in people with MS. This study will target enrollment of Veterans with MS, who tend to have more advanced disability than non-Veterans with MS.
Description
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disorder affecting about 1 million Americans. Among the many MS symptoms, muscle weakness is among the most common, contributes to decreased mobility, and worsens as disability advances. While there is strong evidence that moderate-to-high intensity resistance training improves muscle strength in people with MS and low disability, there is little evidence evaluating resistance training in people with advanced disability due to MS (i.e., those who need assistance to walk or use a wheelchair). People with advanced disability due to MS require uni…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–75 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Confirmed diagnosis of MS 2. Age 18-75 3. Patient Determined Disease Steps (PDDS) 4 to 7 * PDDS 4: Early cane: I use a cane or a single crutch or some other form of support (such as touching a wall or leaning on someone's arm) for walking all the time or part of the time, especially when walking outside. I think I can walk 25 feet in 20 seconds without a cane or crutch. I always need some assistance (cane or crutch) if I want to walk as far as three blocks. * PDDS 5: Late cane: To be able to walk 25 feet, I have to have a cane, crutch, or someone to hold onto. I…
Interventions
- OtherLow-Load Exercise with Blood Flow Restriction
Participants in the BFR group will attend a 10-week, twice weekly intervention exercise session combining low-load resistance training with at least 60% blood flow occlusion. Standard education regarding the importance of exercise for people with MS will also be provided. All participants will also be asked to practice a home exercise program focusing on functional tasks one time a week.
- OtherLow-Load Exercise Control Group
Participants in the Control group will attend a 10-week, twice weekly intervention exercise session combining low-load resistance training. Standard education regarding the importance of exercise for people with MS will also be provided. All participants will also be asked to practice a home exercise program focusing on functional tasks one time a week.
Location
- Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, COAurora, Colorado