The Effect of 12 Weeks Combined (Strength, Endurance, Pilates, PNF) Exercise Training on Fibrin D-Dimer (FDD) and Interleukin-6 Levels in Female Multiple Sclerosis Patients with Different Levels of Disability

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disorder that can restrict individual's ability to carry on their activities. The[J1] aim of this study was to examine the effects of combined exercise training on serum Fibrin D-Dimer (FDD) and interleukin-6 in female multiple sclerosis patients with different levels of disability.
96 female patients with MS were selected and were divided into three groups based on their physical disability scale scores (EDSS): low disability (n=44), moderate disability (n=26) and severe disability (n=26). Afterwards, participants of each group were randomly divided into an experimental and a control group. Participants performed 12 weeks combined strength, endurance, Pilates and PNF training, three sessions per week, 45 to 60 minute for each session. Dependent and independent t-test was used to compare means between and within groups, respectively.
The results showed a significant decrease in fibrin D-dimer (p= 0.001) and interleukin-6 (p= 0.001) in the low disability group and interleukin-6 (p=0.004) in the severe disability group.
It appears that performing combined exercise training results in a decrease in fibrin D-dimer, interleukin-6 and inflammation in low disability MS patients. Thus, these exercises are recommended as a complementary therapy alongside drug treatments for M.S patients.