Effects of total body resistance exercise on sexual function and quality of life in female with multiple sclerosis

Sexual function and quality of life (QOL) are compromised in female with multiple sclerosis (MS). Recent studies emphasize on functional suspension training using body weight resistance against gravity. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effect of total body resistance exercise (TRX) on sexual function and QOL in patients with MS.

Among 93 female patients referred to Isfahan Multiple Sclerosis Society (IMSS) 34 females in the age range of 20 to 50 years with expanded disability status scale of 1-4 were selected as a statistical sample. The participants were intentionally selected into two of control (n=15) and experimental (n=19) groups. The experimental group received the TRX program for 8 weeks and the control group received their usual care.

The results showed that there was a significant improvement in physical function (P=0.001), role limitations due to physical problems (P=0.001) and emotional (P=0.015), physical health (P=0.018), sexual function (P=0.018) and sexual satisfaction (P=0.040) of the experimental group compared to the control group. However, no significant differences were found n relation to pain (P=0.485), emotional well-being (P=0.468), energy (P=0.459), health perceptions (P=0.600), social function (P=0.116), cognitive function (P=0.896), concern about their health distress (P=0.118) and mental health (P=0.091), between the two groups.

TRX has the necessary components to improve the physical dimensions of quality of life and sexual function of patients with MS.