The effect of eight-week Pilates training on motor function and depression in subjects with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Depression can be an emotional reaction or as a part of biology of MS. Multiple sclerosis usually affects central nervous system which is in charge of limb muscle movements. As a result، most patients will lose muscle strength. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of Pilates training on motor function and depression in subjects with multiple sclerosis.

A quasi-experimental study was designed for this research. Participants were thirty three female individuals with MS (mean ± SD age; 33. 36 ± 9. 447 years، expanded disability status scale or EDSS ± SD; 2. 89 ± 1. 278) who referred to Isfahan multiple sclerosis centers in 2011. The patients were randomly assigned to two groups of experimental (18) and control (15). Depression Questionnaire، 30 seconds chairs stands، and timed up and go tests were used to record psychological and motor functions. The experimental group received an eight-week intervention (three sessions per week). The collected data were then analyzed through ANCOVA via SPSS، version16.

The results revealed a significant difference between control and experimental groups in 30 second chair stand test (F = 232. 394، P < 0. 001)، timed get up and go (F = 265. 199، P < 0. 001)، and depression (F = 92. 000، P < 0. 001).

The main goal of Pilates training is general body improvement and based on results has positive effects on motor function and depression. It seems that these results can just be achieved when this training is added to exercise therapy for MS as a supplementary treatment.