Expiratory Muscle Conditioning in Multiple Sclerosis Using Magnetic Stimulation

The magnetic stimulation protocol (plan of study) consists of a daily expiratory (breathing out) muscle conditioning program (20 minutes). A magnetic coil will be placed on participant's back to stimulate the nerves related to the breathing function. Each stimulation will last two seconds and the time between each stimulation is about half a minute. The training session will begin with low intensity FMS for 20 minutes daily. The FMS stimulation intensity will gradually increase during the 6-week training period.

The REMT training will take place in the FMS lab using a standard resistive breathing device. After training, participants will perform the exercise for 20 minutes daily (5days each week for 6 weeks) in their home. Participants will wear a nose clip when performing the breathing exercise. The exercise protocol will begin with a low resistance level for 20 minutes a day. The resistance level will gradually increase during the 6-week training period.