Effect of 8- Week Core Stability Training on some of Functional Indices in Women with Multiple Sclerosis

Introduction: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune, inflammatory and chronic disease that occurs as myelin damage and destruction in the white matter of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves and causes functional problems in the patient. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of 8- week core stability training on some of functional indices in women with multiple sclerosis. Methods: The study samples were 24 women with MS (25 to 40 years) in Bojourd with the EDSS level of disability of 2 to 5. Patients were randomly-purposefully divided into 2 groups: core stability training group (N = 12) and control group (N = 12) groups. Exercise group carried out an 8- week core stability exercise program for 30 to 40 min 3 times/week. During this time, the control group did not have any regular physical activity. Timed Up and Go test (TUG) was used to assessment of balance. In addition, Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) questionnaire and One- Repetition Maximum (1RM) were used to evaluate fatigue and muscle strength of the two groups before and after training. Data were analyzed by covariance test with SPSS software at (P < 0.05). Results: According to the results of covariance test, performing eight week of core stability training was associated with a significant increase in balance (P = 0.000), upper body muscle strength(P = 0.000), lower body muscle strength (P = 0.014) and reduced fatigue(P = 0.000). Conclusions: According to the results of this study, performing core stability training can improve functional indices (balance, muscle strength and fatigue of people with MS. Therefore, these exercises can be used as an effective exercise activity in patients with multiple sclerosis for rehabilitation.