The Effect of Progressive Resistance Training on Fatigue in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Systematic Review

Abstract Background: Fatigue is a frequent symptom of multiple sclerosis, with negative effects extending from general func-tioning to the quality of life. Progressive resistance training (PRT) can be an effective tool in the rehabilitation of fatigue in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). PRT can improve the performance of physical activities such as walking and the health-related quality of life of people with MS. Aim of Study: The aim of this systematic review was to examine the effectiveness of PRT for fatigue in MS patients. Material and Methods: The current study was conducted on patients with MS aged ³18 years. We searched the following electronic databases: The Cochrane library, PubMed, Scopus, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) and the Web of Science and a manual search of bibliography from inception till June 2021. Randomized Control Trials (RCTs) were only included in this review and the others were excluded according to eligibility criteria. The intervention used was PRT. Quality assessment of all eligible studies was done using the PEDro scale. Intervention: Five relevant randomized controlled trials included progressive resistance training and its effects on fatigue in patients with multiple sclerosis. Results: Five articles with 186 patients met our inclusion criteria and were included in our meta-analysis for fatigue as the primary outcome. Conclusions: Progressive resistance training appears to be effective and safe in the management of fatigue in MS patientsand patients should continue on PRT to maintain its positive benefits. But more future studies are still needed to cover this issue.