Project R-11244

Exercise therapy in Multiple Sclerosis, do we need to revise the traditional moderate to vigorous intensity exercise paradigm? (Research)

Exercise therapy has become an integral part of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) treatment. So far, a multitude of higher intensity exercise therapy (HIT) studies have shown substantial improvements in a variety of MS related functional disabilities (e.g. reduced exercise capacity and muscle strength) important to perform daily life activities. However, these disease symptoms also result in an inactivity-related physiological profile leading to impaired glycaemic control, blood lipid profile, body composition and cardiovascular function that are important health variables. In elderly, obese subjects and type II diabetics, HIT also improves these health factors but, surprisingly, not in MS. Low-intensity, non-exercise physical activity (NEPA, walking/standing), a possibly more feasible physical activity approach, improves glucose tolerance, blood lipids and body composition in other populations but has not been investigated in MS. Consequently, NEPA may be an interesting new strategy in MS rehabilitation. In a series of 4 consecutive studies I will (1) first investigate the impact of NEPA on glycaemic control, lipid profile and body composition in MS. Hereafter, (2) I study whether MS patients compensate structured exercise with increased sedentary time and (3) investigate what real-life strategies to increase NEPA are currently used in other diseased populations. (4) Finally, the effect of combined NEPA and HIT targeting both health and functional variables will be investigated.

01 November 2020 - 31 October 2022