Effects of a Training Program Involving Body Cooling on Physical and Cognitive Capacities and Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Pilot Study

Objective: Two methods using exercise and body cooling could influence the well-being of patients with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). The aim of this study was to determine whether wearing a cooling vest during a physical training program could increase the cognitive and physical capacities and quality of life in PwMS. Methods: Eighteen PwMS ( 49.6 +/- 8 years; Expanded Disability Status Score 5.0 +/- 1.0) were randomly assigned to a cooling or control group. PwMS underwent a 7-week physical training program. In the cooling group, PwMS wore a cooling vest during each training session, whereas in the control group, PwMS wore a cotton T- shirt. Before and after the training program, both groups completed the Isaacs Set Test (IST), Trail Making Test A- B (TMT A-B), SEP-59, Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory and performed a 6-minute walk test (6MWT). Results: The cooling group showed significantly ( p < 0.05) improved performance for IST, TMT A and 6MWT. Their emotional well- being and cognitive functions investigated in SEP- 59 were signifi- cantly ( p < 0.05) improved, and general and physical fatigue significantly ( p < 0.05) decreased. Conclusions: This physical training program combined with a cooling strategy could have a significant positive influence on both cognitive and physical performances, perceived fatigue and emotional well- being in heat- sensitive PwMS. (C) 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel