Clinical Research Directory

Comparison of Structured Exercise and Exergaming in Pediatric-Onset Multiple Sclerosis

This study will examine how two different exercise programs affect children and young adults with pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS). POMS is a type of multiple sclerosis that begins in childhood or adolescence and can cause fatigue, weakness, balance problems, and difficulty moving. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a video game-based exercise program (exergaming) compared with traditional exercise training in enhancing balance, physical activity levels, reducing fatigue, and improving quality of life in individuals with pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis. Approximately 30 participants aged 12 to 22 years old who have been diagnosed with POMS and have mild to moderate symptoms (Extended Disability Status Scale \[EDSS\] score below 6) will participate in the study. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: Traditional Exercise Group: Participants will receive structured exercise instruction via live Zoom sessions (a tele-rehabilitation model). For 8 weeks, twice a week, they will perform supervised aerobic, strength, and balance exercises, each lasting approximately 45 minutes. Exercise Game Group: Participants will perform similar aerobic, strength training, and balance exercises using the Nintendo Switch Ring Fit Adventure™ video game system. Researchers will evaluate participants' physical activity levels, balance, fatigue, and quality of life parameters at baseline and after completing the 8-week intervention. The study aims to determine whether the exergaming program can help participants increase their physical activity, reduce fatigue, and improve balance and daily functioning compared with traditional exercise. This approach offers an engaging and technology-supported way to incorporate physical activity into the rehabilitation of young people with POMS.

Five Times Sit-To-Stand Test for Patients with Pediatric-Onset Multiple Sclerosis

Transitioning from a sitting to a standing position is a movement essential for maintaining physical independence and functional mobility, and is necessary for performing many activities in daily life. Lower extremity muscle strength is considered the most critical factor reducing the capacity to perform the sit-to-stand movement. A study concluded that the Five-Times Sit-to-Stand test in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) is multifactorial and is associated with walking speed and fatigue. Another study using the same test concluded that lower extremity capacity is reduced compared to healthy controls and is associated with balance, functional mobility, gait, and fatigue. Pediatric-onset MS, occurring in patients under the age of 18, accounts for approximately 3-10% of all multiple sclerosis cases and is increasingly recognized in many parts of the world. According to our research, no studies have been found that demonstrate the extent of lower extremity involvement in patients with pediatric-onset MS compared to their healthy controls. Our aim is to evaluate the performance of the Five-Times Sit-to-Stand test in patients with pediatric-onset MS, compare it with healthy controls, and examine its relationship with physical activity, exercise capacity, functional mobility, quality of life and fatigue.