COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN RESISTANCE TRAINING WITH MUSCLE STIMULATOR AND VESTIBULAR REHABILITATION FOR IMPROVING BALANCE IN MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS PATIENTS

Abstract

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic immune-mediated demyelinating disorder
of the central nervous system characterized by impaired balance, gait dysfunction, muscle
weakness, and an increased risk of falls. Physiotherapy interventions such as resistance
training and vestibular rehabilitation are commonly employed to improve postural stability
and functional mobility. However, evidence directly comparing resistance training combined
with muscle stimulation and vestibular rehabilitation remains limited.
Methodology& Results: A randomized controlled trial was conducted on individuals
diagnosed with multiple sclerosis who fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Participants were
randomly allocated into two intervention groups. Group A received progressive resistance
training combined with NMES, while Group B underwent vestibular rehabilitation. Both
groups received supervised treatment over the intervention period. Outcome measures
included the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), Functional Reach
Test (FRT), and Dynamic Gait Index (DGI). Assessments were performed before and after
completion of the intervention. Statistical analysis was conducted using appropriate
parametric tests, with the level of significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: Both interventions resulted in statistically significant improvements in balance and
functional mobility. However, the resistance training combined with NMES group
demonstrated greater improvements across the primary outcome measures compared with the
vestibular rehabilitation group.
Contribution of the Paper
1. This randomized controlled trial directly compares resistance training combined with
neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and vestibular rehabilitation for
improving balance in individuals with multiple sclerosis.
2. Both interventions significantly improved balance and functional mobility; resistance
training combined with NMES demonstrated greater improvements in balance-
related outcomes.
3. The findings provide evidence to help physiotherapists select effective rehabilitation
strategies for improving postural stability and functional mobility in ambulatory
individuals with multiple sclerosis.
Conclusion: Both rehabilitation strategies were effective in improving balance in individuals
with multiple sclerosis. Resistance training combined with NMES produced superior
improvements in postural stability and functional mobility, suggesting that it may be
considered a preferred intervention for balance rehabilitation in ambulatory individuals with
multiple sclerosis.