A Task-oriented Circuit Training in Multiple Sclerosis

TOCT includes six different workstations in which subjects exercise for 5 minutes in each one (3 minutes of exercise and 2 minutes of rest). During each session, subjects undergo 2 laps that take about 60 minutes (6 workstation × 5 minutes × 2 laps), with 10 minutes of rest after each lap. In addition, walking endurance is trained by 30 minutes walking on the treadmill including rests if necessary. This is a progressive circuit and subjects while exercising receive feedbacks (visual and auditory) by the physiotherapist. Rests are used to discuss about difficulties and to provide further feedbacks. One session includes up to 3 patients and lasts 120 minutes, 5 days/week for 2 weeks. After this period they will receive a home-exercise maintenance program for 3 months.

The control group will not receive any specific rehabilitation treatment for gait performance and mobility improvement. At any case, the control group will be authorized, at will, to exercise in non-rehabilitative contexts (i.e. swimming, walking, yoga) for 14 weeks. After this period they will receive TOCT as treatment plus a home-exercise maintenance program for 3 months.