In 2013, a study has revealed promising benefits of both aerobic exercise and yoga for women with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic disease of the central nervous system often leading to mobility issues and fatigue.

The study, conducted by Azra Ahmadi, Ali Asghar Arastoo, Masoud Nikbakht, Shahla Zahednejad, and Mojtaba Rajabpour, involved 31 female MS patients with an average age of 36.75 years and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores ranging from 1.0 to 4.0. Participants were randomly divided into three groups: one group undertook treadmill training, another engaged in yoga practice, and the control group continued their regular treatment routines.

Both the treadmill training and yoga practice spanned 8 weeks, with sessions occurring three times weekly, totaling 24 sessions. The researchers assessed balance, walking speed and endurance, fatigue, depression, and anxiety using various scales: Berg Balance scores, time for a 10-meter walk, distance for a two-minute walk, Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI).

The study found significant improvements in balance, walking endurance, fatigue, depression, and anxiety for both the treadmill training and yoga groups compared to their pre-intervention states. Specifically:

• Treadmill Training: Demonstrated a notable decrease in the time taken to walk 10 meters.
• Yoga Practice: Showed improvements in balance, endurance, and mood, although the 10-meter walk time remained relatively unchanged.
• Mood Enhancement: Significant differences were observed between the treadmill and yoga groups concerning anxiety levels, with the treadmill group showing more pronounced reductions.

This research suggests that both treadmill training and yoga can enhance ambulatory function, reduce fatigue, and improve mood in women with mild to moderate MS. These findings provide valuable insights for MS patients seeking to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life through physical activity.

Reference: Ahmadi, A., Arastoo, A. A., Nikbakht, M., Zahednejad, S., & Rajabpour, M. (2013). Comparison of the effect of 8 weeks aerobic and yoga training on ambulatory function, fatigue and mood status in MS patients. Iranian Red Crescent Medical Journal, 15(6), 449.