Multiple Sclerosis
Conditions
Brief summary
This study will examine the effectiveness of aquatic therapy on a range of MS-related symptoms such as cognition, mood, fatigue and quality of life (QOL).
Detailed description
Aim 1. Examine the impact of aquatic exercise on cognitive abilities. The proposed study will test the hypotheses that, compared to the wait-list control group, the treatment group will demonstrate significantly greater improvements in cognitive outcomes, specifically: processing speed, executive functioning, working memory and long-term memory. Aim 2. The current study will examine the impact of an aquatic exercise on fatigue, mood, wellness, QOL and physical functioning. Specifically the investigators predict that aquatic exercise will lead to improvements in: 1.Fatigue 2. Health related QOL 3. Depression/anxiety 4. Self-efficacy 5. Physical Functioning (i.e. gait and walking). Aim 3: Examine the long-term effects of aquatic exercise on all outcome measures.
Interventions
BEHAVIORALAquatic Exercise Program
The aquatic exercise program will consist of 45 minute classes held 3 days/week for 8 weeks (18 hours total). The program is based on guidelines provided by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) and will be led by an aquatic fitness instructor certified to teach individuals with MS at the YMCA in Scotch Plains-Fanwood. The exercises will focus on improving flexibility, balance and strength. Equipment such as water mitts, paddles, noodles and bands will be used to increase the level of difficulty as needed.
BEHAVIORALStretching Program
The stretching program will consist of 45 minute classes held 3 days/week for 8 weeks (18 hours total). The program is based on guidelines provided by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) and will be conducted online via a secure video-conferencing website.
Sponsors
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
Kessler Foundation
Study design
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
CROSSOVER
Primary purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
DOUBLE (Subject, Investigator)
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
18 Years to 65 Years
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
* diagnosis of MS. * between the ages of 18-65. * read and speak English fluently.
Exclusion criteria
* history of significant substance abuse. * history of neurological disease other than MS (for example, stroke, epilepsy, or brain injury). * history of significant psychiatric illness (for example, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia). * has engaged in more than 30 minutes of moderate to strenuous exercise per week during the past six months.
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Cognition measured by results of standardized neuropsychological tests | 8 weeks | standardized measures of processing speed, executive functioning, working memory and long-term memory |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Quality of Life measured by self report questionnaires | 8 weeks | General QOL measured with Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) and HRQOL measured with Health Status Questionnaire (HSQ). |
| Fatigue measured by self-report questionnaires | 8 weeks | Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS) and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS\_ |
Countries
United States
Contacts
Primary ContactAngela Smith, MA
Outcome results
None listed