Effect of TRX Suspension Training on Functional Balance in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Introduction: Many people with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience difficulty with balance and walking, which can make daily activities difficult. Recent studies in rehabilitation procedures emphasize on functional suspension training using body weight resistance against gravity by unstable tools and equipment that are similar to daily activities. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effect of total body resistance exercise (TRX) suspension training on functional balance in patients with MS.   Materials & Methods: This study included 34 females with MS and expanded disability status scale of 1-4 as well as the age range of 20-50 years who referred to Isfahan MS Society. The participants were intentionally selected and assigned nonrandomly into two groups of control (n=15) and experimental (n=19). The training protocol included 8 TRX movements with four difficulty levels from simple to difficult for 8 weeks, 3 sessions per week, and each session lasting 45 minutes. The functional balance was measured through using Timed Up and Go (TUG), 10-Metre Walk Test (10MWT), and forward and lateral functional reach tests. Data were analyzed using ANCOVA. P-value less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Ethics code: IR.UI.REC.1396.014, Clinical trial: IRCT20180521039762N1   Findings: The results obtained from the posttest showed a significant improvement in functional balance of the experimental group, compared to the control group in terms of the TUG test (P=0.001), 10MWT (P=0.001), and lateral functional reach tests to the left and right (P=0.013). However, there was no significant difference between the two groups regarding forward functional reach test (P=0.053).   Discussion & Conclusions: According to the results, it can be concluded that TRX suspension training improves functional balance, walking speed, and balance during walking in patients with MS. Therefore, it is recommended to perform TRX training as a functional training intervention to improve functional balance and walking in MS patients.