Balance training offers multiple benefits in trial

A recent small-scale study suggests that both balance and endurance training can effectively alleviate fatigue in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). However, for those grappling with balance issues, focusing on balance training may offer added benefits, as it tackles both fatigue and balance simultaneously.

Published in Frontiers in Neurology, the study titled “Fatigue may improve equally after balance and endurance training in multiple sclerosis: a randomized, crossover clinical trial” sheds light on the potential of exercise interventions to mitigate symptoms of MS.

Previous research has demonstrated the fatigue-reducing effects of aerobic cycling, strength training, and yoga in individuals with MS. Building on this knowledge, researchers in Italy investigated whether balance training could offer additional relief from fatigue in this population.

Both balance and endurance training proved equally effective in reducing fatigue over time, as assessed using the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale questionnaire. However, only balance training elicited a significant improvement in balance, as measured by the Equiscale and EquiTest.

The findings suggest that while both endurance and balance training can alleviate fatigue in individuals with MS in the short term, balance training uniquely enhances balance control. These insights underscore the potential of tailored exercise interventions to address the multifaceted challenges associated with MS.