What active therapeutic interventions are available for Multiple Sclerosis patients in inpatient rehabilitation?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients in inpatient rehabilitation have access to several active therapeutic interventions that target mobility, fatigue, and overall function. A 2024 study of 255 people with MS undergoing inpatient multidisciplinary rehabilitation found that specific therapies led to clinically meaningful improvements in walking, balance, and strength 5. These interventions are delivered by a team of specialists and are tailored to each patient's needs.
What the research says
A systematic review of inpatient rehabilitation in MS identified several active therapeutic interventions with medium-to-large effects on mobility. These include gait training variants, robot-assisted gait training, strength training, task-oriented training, dual-task training, endurance training, coordination training, and balance training 5. All of these showed significant improvements in walking tests and sit-to-stand performance 5.
Beyond mobility, aerobic training and strength training have been shown to reduce fatigue in MS patients. A randomized trial found that aerobic training reduced fatigue severity by 18.8% and strength training by 16.8%, with both also improving fatigue impact 6. Another study in older adults with MS found that a 16-week home-based exercise program (aerobic and resistance) improved executive function and fatigue 8.
Emerging therapies like laughter yoga have also been studied. A randomized controlled trial found that 12 sessions of laughter yoga significantly reduced fatigue severity and improved sleep quality in people with MS 7. While not yet standard in inpatient rehab, such interventions may complement traditional therapies.
For more advanced cases, cell-based therapies like CAR-T and hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) therapies are being investigated for autoimmune conditions including MS, but these are not yet part of routine inpatient rehabilitation 1. Similarly, dietary approaches like the ketogenic diet have shown potential in reducing inflammation and supporting myelin repair in MS, but evidence is still emerging 11.
What to ask your doctor
- Which specific therapies (e.g., gait training, strength training, balance exercises) are available in this rehabilitation program?
- How are therapy sessions tailored to my mobility level and fatigue?
- Can I combine aerobic and strength training to address both walking and fatigue?
- Are there any complementary interventions like laughter yoga or cognitive training offered?
- How will my progress be measured during the inpatient stay?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Physical Medicine & Rehab and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.