Background and objectives: People with multiple sclerosis (MS) often experience limitations in joint range of motion, which is linked to spasticity and continued inactivity. Low flexibility levels in this population have been linked to postural problems and muscular pain. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review and a meta-analysis aimed at identifying the characteristics and methodological quality of investigations studying the effects of exercise interventions on the flexibility levels of people with MS. Materials and Methods: Three electronic databases (MEDLINE/PubMed, SPORTDiscus and Scopus) were systematically searched up to May 2019 for intervention studies focused on the effects of exercise on the flexibility levels of people with MS. A meta-analysis, including randomized controlled trials (RCT), which reported information regarding the effects of exercise on flexibility, was also conducted. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database, and the Quality Assessment Tool for Before–After Studies, with no control group. The quality of the information reported, regarding the programs conducted, was assessed by means of the Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template (CERT) scale. Results: Seven studies, four RCTs and three uncontrolled investigations were finally selected. The methodological quality of the RCTs was considered “poor” in one study, and “good” and “excellent” in two studies and one investigation, respectively. The three uncontrolled studies showed a methodological quality between “fair” and “poor”. Following the CERT scale, four studies were graded as “high” and three as “low”. Findings from the meta-analysis indicated no significant effects on hamstring flexibility, or the range of motion in the hips, knees or ankles. Conclusions: There is preliminary evidence from individual studies which indicates that people with MS can improve their lower limb flexibility following participation in physical exercise programs, but the meta-analysis did not confirm these findings.

Este trabajo comprueba la importancia de la aplicación de las nuevas tecnologías unidas a la actividad física en la rehabilitación de personas con discapacidad. En la intervención se ha llevado a cabo un entrenamiento del equilibrio y la coordinación con una duración de seis semanas, usando la plataforma NeuroAthome en personas con esclerosis múltiple. Se han podido comprobar las mejoras en algunos de los parámetros medidos y, por tanto, promover el uso de las nuevas tecnologías para la rehabilitación de este colectivo.

Objective: To evaluate the effects of a 10-week resistance training program in patients. Methodology: A group of eleven subjects (7 women and 4 men) with multiple sclerosis with a range in the “Expanded disability status scale” score between 6 and 8, mean age 46.45 ± 6.89 years-old, participated in this investigation. It was carried out a 10-week resistance program, twice per week, complemented with a physiotherapy session. Sample was divided in walking group and in the non-walking group. Measurements of strength, balance, body composition and quality of life were taken before and after the intervention program. Results: Significant differences were found in the variables load (kg), total medium strength (N), maximum strength (N), total medium power (W) in the bench press and squat in the walking group and in shoulder extension test in the non-walking group; and interpersonal relationships, physical and psychological health, by the application of “WHOQOL -BREF” questionnaire. There were no significant differences in balance and body composition variables. Conclusion: The 10-week strength training program in patients with multiple sclerosis with a score between 6 and 8 on the scale “Expanded disability status scale” showed improvements at a psychological, social and physical levels. About strength variables, it was found improvements that could improve functionality in the activities of daily life. Furthermore, balance test and body composition did not show significant changes in both groups.