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Sponsor: Marinos Chatzikonstantinou
Conditions: Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PMS)
Interventions: In-Phase Bilateral Upper Limb Exercise Program
Countries: Cyprus
This study investigates whether a structured exercise program using coordinated movements of both arms can improve brain and motor function in people with Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Progressive MS is associated with gradual worsening of neurological function, including difficulties with movement, strength, balance, and cognition. Because current medications have limited effects on disease progression, rehabilitation strategies that promote brain plasticity and functional recovery are increasingly important. In this study, five individuals with Progressive Multiple Sclerosis participated in a 12-week exercise program consisting of in-phase bilateral upper-limb movements performed three times per week. Brain activity related to movement was measured using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), which assessed corticospinal excitability through active motor threshold measurements. Additional clinical tests evaluated walking speed, balance, hand dexterity, muscle strength, cognitive processing speed, fatigue, and quality of life. The study used a single-case experimental design with repeated measurements during baseline and intervention phases to determine whether the exercise program produced measurable neurophysiological and functional changes.
Sex: ALL
Age: 30 Years to 75 Years
Healthy volunteers: No
Study type: INTERVENTIONAL
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS) or Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS) * Age between 30 and 75 years * Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score between 5 and 7 * Ability to understand study procedures and provide informed consent * Ability to safely participate in an exercise program involving coordinated upper-limb movements Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of other neurological diseases affecting the central nervous system (e.g., Parkinson's disease, stroke) * Metallic implants in the brain contraindicating transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) * History of significant cardiovascular disease (e.g., heart failure, aneurysm) * History of epilepsy or seizures * Severe orthopedic disorders (e.g., recent fractures, spine surgery, severe musculoskeletal injury) * Pregnancy during the study period * Severe visual impairments (e.g., optic neuritis, diplopia) * Severe hearing impairments (e.g., deafness) * Severe spasticity greater than grade 1+ on the Modified Ashworth Scale * Severe psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia)
- Nicosia, Cyprus