| dc.description.abstract | Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that results in
many symptoms including balance deficits, mobility limitations, spasticity and reduced
quality of life (Joy & Johnston, 2001). However, little research exists on improving
balance, mobility and spasticity through physical activity interventions in people with
MS. The purpose of the present study was to determine the effects of a yoga intervention
on postural control, spasticity, mobility, and quality of life in people with MS.
A sample o f 12 people aged 30 to 76 (mean age o f 52 yrs.) with varying types of
MS participated in a twice weekly 70 minute yoga intervention for 10 weeks. Participants
completed a spasticity questionnaire, the Adapted Timed Get Up and Go (ATGUG), the
Rivermead Mobility Index (RMI), a postural control assessment, and the Multiple
Sclerosis Quality o f Life Inventory (MS-QLI) at 3 assessments; pre, post, and 12 weeks
after the intervention. After the 10-week program a social validation questionnaire was
also completed.
One way repeated measures ANOVAs or Friedman ANOVAs by ranks indicated
significant changes on the fatigue and vision scales of the MS-QLI MFIS and IVIS
between pre and post assessments. Changes in ATGUG and RMI suggest that yoga may
be a valuable alternative to traditional exercise programs for people with MS. Many of
the changes began to return to pre intervention values over the second 12-week period.
Future studies should employ a control group, larger sample sizes, and screen more
carefully for initial functional status stratifications. | |
