Exercise + Cognitive Training for Multiple Sclerosis

This trial tests how exercise, with or without brain training, can help older Veterans with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) improve walking, thinking, and reduce falls. Participants will either engage in exercises like walking and resistance training followed by brain training activities, or play puzzle games instead of brain training. The trial aims to determine if combining physical and mental exercises offers more benefits for those with MS. It suits Veterans diagnosed with MS who haven't experienced a relapse in the last month and can stand unaided for at least a minute. As an unphased trial, this study provides Veterans the opportunity to explore innovative ways to enhance their quality of life.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that combining exercise with brain training is generally safe for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Studies have found that exercise is both safe and beneficial for individuals with MS. Specifically, engaging in aerobic exercise alongside brain activities does not cause major side effects.

For example, one study found that participants adhered to the program well and did not report serious side effects. This indicates that combining exercise and brain training is well-tolerated by participants.

Researchers are excited about the Exercise + Cognitive Training approach for Multiple Sclerosis because it combines physical exercise with tailored cognitive training, which is a novel strategy compared to traditional treatments like medication and physical therapy alone. Unlike standard care, which often focuses on managing symptoms through medication, this method aims to simultaneously boost physical fitness and cognitive function, potentially improving overall quality of life. The use of RehaCom, a computerized training tool that adapts to individual cognitive needs, is a unique feature that targets attention, executive function, logical reasoning, and memory, setting it apart from existing options. This dual approach could offer a more holistic improvement for individuals with MS, addressing both body and mind in a structured, engaging way.

Research has shown that combining exercise with brain training can improve thinking skills more than doing either one alone. This trial will compare two approaches: one group will engage in exercise followed by computerized cognitive training, while another group will perform the same exercises followed by playing puzzle games. Studies have found that the combination of exercise and cognitive training helps with walking, thinking, and even slows down MS symptoms. Specifically, endurance exercise has enhanced thinking abilities and quality of life for people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Additionally, doing both types of exercise together has led to better long-term memory, walking ability, and overall quality of life. These findings suggest that this dual approach could be a promising way to boost both physical and mental health in people with MS.⁴⁶⁷⁸⁹