The effects of an 8-week home based balance exercise program among persons with multiple sclerosis; a case study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to find out the effects of an 8-week long exercise program on balance among persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a major cause of neurological disability among adults. Symptoms caused by the condition vary from one individual to another depending on the location of the lesions. Deficits can involve only one neurological function or be a combination of many. Accumulated impairments due to lost or impaired function can increase fear of falling and fall related injuries. Decreased confidence in balance can reduce individual’s physical activity and participation which in turn can lead to social isolation.

This thesis is a practical implementation based on earlier thesis and was conducted in co-operation with the local MS-association. Subjects were volunteers who exercised according to a balance exercise program for eight weeks. Subjects’ balance and confidence in balance related activities was assessed with functional measurements and semi-structured interviews.

The results suggest that 8-week long home based exercise program which is based on scientific background of balance, is performed regularly and has progression in exercises can improve the assessed and perceived balance of a person with MS.