Impact of a combined rehabilitation program on fatigue and fatigability in patients with multiple sclerosis.

Introduction/Background Fatigue and fatigability are common problems in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The aim of this study was to explore the impact of a combined rehabilitation program on fatigue and on fatigability of knee extensor muscles in patients with MS. Material and method Twenty-three patients with MS were included in this study. Knee extensor muscles strength and fatigability were assessed using an isokinetic ergometer and perceived fatigue was assessed with a self-reported fatigue scale (Modified Fatigue Impact scale) before and after the rehabilitation program. The combined rehabilitation program included sessions on balance and gait training; sessions of endurance and resistance training. Results After rehabilitation, fatigue decreased significantly, on the other hand, torque fatigability index increased. Strength at the beginning of the fatigability protocol increased but strength at the end of the fatigability protocol did not change. Conclusion Combined rehabilitation program increased strength and decreased fatigue. However, torque fatigability index increased because the program enhanced strength at the beginning of the fatigability protocol but not at the end of the fatigability protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]