Effect of Combined Training Protocol on Postural Control and Motor Functions of Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis

Background & Objective: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. Postural control and motor function disorders are the most common MS related symptoms. Currently, exercise therapy seems to be the most effective non-pharmacological approach in controlling and improving these disorders. Thus, the present study intends to study the effect of combined training protocol on postural control and motor functions of individuals with MS. Materials & Methods: After selecting 60 women with MS as the study sample, they were randomly assigned to two training intervention and control groups, each comprised of 30 subjects. The training intervention group performed the combined training protocol for eight weeks. Results: The results of the covariance analysis showed that the combined training protocol had a significant effect on all postural control (postural sway indexes and Berg Balance Scale) and motor function (Timed 25 Feet Walk test and Timed Up and Go test) variables in individuals with MS (P≤0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that the combined training protocol improved postural control and motor functions of individuals with MS. Therefore, these results may be recommended to all individuals who are making an effort to treat and improve individuals with MS. Keywords: Multiple Sclerosis, Postural Control, Motor Function, Combined Training Protoco