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The Effects of a 12-week In-phase Bilateral Exercise Programme on the Corticospinal Plasticity in People With Progressive Multiple Sclerosis
Sponsor: Marinos Chatzikonstantinou
Summary
This study investigates whether a structured exercise program using coordinated movements of both arms can improve brain and motor function in people with Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Progressive MS is associated with gradual worsening of neurological function, including difficulties with movement, strength, balance, and cognition. Because current medications have limited effects on disease progression, rehabilitation strategies that promote brain plasticity and functional recovery are increasingly important. In this study, five individuals with Progressive Multiple Sclerosis participated in a 12-week exercise program consisting of in-phase bilateral upper-limb movements performed three times per week. Brain activity related to movement was measured using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), which assessed corticospinal excitability through active motor threshold measurements. Additional clinical tests evaluated walking speed, balance, hand dexterity, muscle strength, cognitive processing speed, fatigue, and quality of life. The study used a single-case experimental design with repeated measurements during baseline and intervention phases to determine whether the exercise program produced measurable neurophysiological and functional changes.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
30 Years - 75 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
5
Start Date
2025-02-01
Completion Date
2025-06-23
Last Updated
2026-04-23
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
In-Phase Bilateral Upper Limb Exercise Program
The intervention consisted of a 12-week structured exercise program based on in-phase bilateral upper-limb movements, performed three times per week. During these movements, homologous muscles of both arms were activated simultaneously to promote coordinated bilateral motor activity. Each session lasted approximately 30-60 minutes and included a circuit of functional exercises, adapted sport-related movements (such as basketball chest and overhead passes), resistance exercises for finger flexion and extension, and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation patterns. The exercises targeted major upper-limb muscle groups and were performed with a high number of repetitions to promote activity-dependent neuroplasticity. Exercise intensity was monitored using heart rate measurements and maintained below 75% of the participant's age-predicted maximum heart rate to avoid aerobic training intensity. The program was designed to stimulate corticospinal plasticity and improve motor and functional
Locations (1)
Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics
Nicosia, Cyprus