Introduction: the balance impairments are current problems in people with Multiple Sclerosis, so much that the risk of fracture from falls in MS Patients is 2 to 3 times higher than healthy subjects. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of 12 week Pilates exercise on functional balance in men with Multiple Sclerosis.
Methodology: Thirty men with ms 3 to 5 expanded disability status scale (EDSS) degree participated and randomly divided into two control and Pilates groups. Pilates group carried out a 12-week Pilates exercise program for 60 min 3 times or weeks. Control group did not participate in any routine exercise or a specific treatment program. Functional balance was assessed by the Berg Balance Scale (BBG), Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), and Functional Reach Test (FRT). Data were analyzed by T-test to evaluate the progress of each group and Independent T-test to compare the means of two groups was used.
Results: Results showed that in average test scores of Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go test and functional reach significant difference was between Pilates exercises group with Control group (p<0.05).
Discussion: 12-week Pilates exercises increases functional balance in MS patient and is great method to prevention fall risk and improve functional balance. Pilates training strengthens the core muscles that are involved in posture adjustments and improves neuromuscular system and reduce the displacement of the center of gravity outside of the building and its fluctuations are reduced. Pilates exercises can play an important role in maintaining the balance with the motor unit recruitment, increased flexibility of motor cortex and improving the use of muscles. Therefore it seems that Pilates exercises with overload on sensory systems involves in Balance and motor system Improved functional balance and postural control in patients with Multiple Sclerosis subjects.