Benefits of Static Stretching, Pliates ® and Elastic Bands Resistance Training on Patients with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: A Longitudinal Study

Objective: To compare the effects of Pilates®, a 30 s static stretching protocol and elastic bands resistance training on lower and hand-grip strength, rachis morphology, flexibility and body balance among RRMS patients. Methods: Twenty-two subjects affected by relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS, EDSS ≤ 6) were randomly divided into 3 groups whose members each performed 16 weeks of training. Stabilometry, rachis morphology, sit and reach, handgrip and sit to stand tests were performed three times: T0, after a month of learning training protocols; T1, after eight weeks of training; and T2, after sixteen weeks of training. Results: Static stretching group. Spinal Mouse (inclination line between ThSp1 and S1 from a standing position): T0 vs. T2, -55%; Sit and Reach test: T0 vs. T2, +15%. Pilates group. Sit and Reach test: T0 vs. T2, +15%; Sit to Stand test: T0 vs. T2, +31%. Elastic group. Stabilometry with eyes open: T0 vs. T1, -51%; stabilometry with eyes closed: T0 vs. T1, -52%; sit to stand test: T0 vs. T2, +39%. Conclusion: Static stretching, Pilates and resistance training are useful to increase the autonomy in the daily life of people with MS thanks to the adoption of these three different training methods.