Early rehabilitation of multiple sclerosis relapse
https://doi.org/10.64265/3033-649X-2026.2.1.24-33
Abstract
Background. It is currently generally accepted that rehabilitation is an integral part of comprehensive multiple sclerosis (MS) therapy. However, data on the effi cacy and safety of MS rehabilitation during relapses are limited. Given that recovery after relapse occurs in half of cases, a search for non-pharmacological strategies is necessary.
Materials and methods. The study included 32 patients with relapsed MS (2–7 points on EDSS (Expanded Disability Status Scale)). Patients in control Group 2 (14 patients) received high-dose pulse therapy with glucocorticoids only. Group 1 (18 patients) received motor rehabilitation in addition to pulse therapy. To assess the efficacy and safety of early rehabilitation during a relapse, standardized scales (FSS (Fatigue Severity Scale), FIS (Fatigue Impact Scale), Borg Scale, 6-minute walk test, Borg Balance Scale, and 9-peg test) were used before treatment and upon discharge. Patients were assessed using the EDSS upon admission, discharge, and 3–4 months later.
Results. After treatment, statistically significant diff erences were observed between the groups, with Group 1 demonstrating superiority over the control group on the following scales: the emotional subscale of the FIS (p = 0.045), the 6-minute walk test (p = 0.045), the EDSS (p = 0.018), and the rehabilitation routing scale (p = 0.025). Statistically significant differences emerged between the groups on the EDSS 3–4 months after treatment, indicating better recovery in Group 1, which received physical rehabilitation in addition to pulse therapy (p = 0.02).
Discussion. Physical rehabilitation during an MS relapse during pulse therapy is safe and eff ective when the principles of load dosing and prevention of overheating are followed.
About the Authors
A. F. Bezdenezhnykh
Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University; Krasnoyarsk Regional Clinical Hospital
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Anna F. Bezdenezhnykh – Cand. Sci. (Med), Associate Professor at the Department of Nervous Diseases with a Course of Postgraduate Education; Neurologist, Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Physician
Partizana Zheleznyaka str., 1, Krasnoyarsk, 660022
Partizana Zheleznyaka str., 3A, Krasnoyarsk, 660022
N. V. Isaeva
Prof. V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University; Krasnoyarsk Regional Clinical Hospital
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Natalia V. Isaeva – Dr Sci. (Med), Professor, Professor at the Department of Nervous Diseases with a Course of Postgraduate Education; Head of the Department of Neurology
Partizana Zheleznyaka str., 1, Krasnoyarsk, 660022
Partizana Zheleznyaka str., 3A, Krasnoyarsk, 660022
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Review
For citations:
Bezdenezhnykh A.F., Isaeva N.V. Early rehabilitation of multiple sclerosis relapse. Sibneuro. 2026;2(1):24-33. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.64265/3033-649X-2026.2.1.24-33
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