Acute moderate-intensity cycling exercise is associated with reduced fatigue in persons with multiple sclerosis

BackgroundFatigue is a prominent, disabling symptom of MS. The prevalence and impact of fatigue highlights the need to identify approaches for its management.PurposeTo examine changes in fatigue associated with an acute bout of moderate-intensity exercise in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS).MethodsFemales (N = 25) with MS completed an incremental exercise test on a cycle ergometer to measure peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) and on a separate day completed the abbreviated Profile of Mood States (POMS) before performing 20 min of cycle ergometry at 60% VO2peak. Participants again completed the POMS at 5, 20, and 60 min after exercise.ResultsThere were small-to-moderate reductions in fatigue subscale scores on the POMS 20 (d = .39) and 60 (d = .45) min after the acute bout of exercise.ConclusionWe conclude that moderate-intensity cycling exercise was associated with reductions in fatigue and might represent an appropriate stimulus for the chronic management of fatigue in persons with MS.

► Fatigue prevalence and impact require effective management approaches.
► We examined changes in fatigue associated with acute exercise in persons with MS.
► Small-to-moderate reductions in fatigue seen 20 and 60 min after exercise.
► Moderate-intensity exercise was associated with reduced fatigue.
► Exercise might provide an appropriate stimulus for fatigue management in persons with MS.