Introduction: Multiple sclerosis or MS is the most common disabling disease of central nervous system. One of the consequences of MS is reducing quality of life in patients. Improving core stability by endurance training and strength training increase balance and improve performance in daily activities of living. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of eight weeks Theraband resistance training and Yoga Training on quality of life in men men suffering from Multiple Sclerosis.
Methodology: This semi-experimental study was done on 20 men with MS in “Multiple sclerosis central of Isfahan” who had Expanded Disability Status Scale scores (EDSS) of 1.0 to 4.0. The patients filled up consent forms and personal information forms. Then they randomly divided into two groups of yoga exercise group and Theraband resistance exercise group (n=10). Patients in the yoga training group performed specific exercise program for 8 weeks (3 sessions per week). The Theraband resistance training group protocol consisted of resistance exercises with emphasis on flexor and extensor muscles in knee hips and trunk for 8 weeks (3 sessions per week/45min each session). The intensity of training in Theraband resistance training group was evaluated by 1RM Theraband stretch and the percentage of Theraband tension. Quality of life was evaluated by SF-36 questionnaire before and after training. Data analyzed with t-test, one-way ANOVA, post hoc LSD using SPSS software (P=0.05).
Results: Findings showed significant differences in quality of life scores in the yoga group (P=0.001) and Theraband (P=0.001). Evaluations between mean pretest and post-test yoga training group and Theraband showed an increase of 10 and 8.3 quality of life questionnaire score in this patients. Yoga was more effective.
Discussion: According to the results of this study, yoga and Theraband resistance training had significant effects on the quality of life in men suffering from Multiple Sclerosis. (P=0.001),(P=0.001) that can be used as accessible home training which can be taught easily without using special equipment to enhance the quality of life in patients with MS. It should be noted that there was significant difference between yoga training and Theraband resistance training (P=0.01),which shows the yoga training was more effective than the Theraband resistance training. it refers to the quiddity of yoga. Yoga emphasizes on mental practicing and relaxation techniques in addition to emphasizes on physical practicing. As a result it is recommended to use yoga for improving the quality of life in men suffering from Multiple Sclerosis.