Purpose A better understanding of how people with Multiple Sclerosis (pwMS) recover from exercise may help inform interventions. Methods We explored physiological and perceptual responses following exercise of different intensities, using a crossover exposure-response design, in 14 adults with MS and nine controls. A cycling exercise test determined maximum capacity (Wpeak). Participants then performed 20minute exercise sessions relative to Wpeak (random order separated by 7days): 1) 45% and 2) 60% continuous cycling, and 3) 90% intermittent cycling (30seconds cycling, 30seconds rest). During a 45minute recovery period, tympanic temperature (Temp°C), exertion in breathing (RPEbr) and legs (RPEleg), and cortical excitability (MEParea) were measured. Results Eleven pwMS and eight controls completed the study. Controls performed better on the exercise test (p<0.05), thus more absolute work during subsequent sessions. PwMS took longer to recover RPEleg with recovery time increasing with intensity (45%-6mins; 60%-15mins; 90%-35mins) and correlating with Temp°C. MEParea was significantly depressed in both groups at 45% and 60% (p<0.001), in the MS group; this also correlated with RPEleg. Conclusion Feelings of leg exertion may persist after exercise in some pwMS, especially at high intensities. This may relate to body temperature and, after continuous exercise, cortical excitability. These results support considering the recovery period post exercise and provide insight into potential correlates of post exercise fatigue
Collett, JMeaney, AHowells, KDawes, NH
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences\Department of Sport and Health Sciences
Year of publication: 2016Date of RADAR deposit: 2017-03-27