Combined Whole-Body Cryotherapy and Exercise vs Exercise Alone for Lower Limb Strength and Mobility in Multiple Sclerosis

BACKGROUND Exercise therapy has been shown to be beneficial in reducing disability in patients with multiple sclerosis. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of whole-body cryotherapy and exercise on muscle strength and mobility in 60 patients with multiple sclerosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study included a group of 60 patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. The CryoGym group (n=20) received whole-body cryotherapy and exercise; the Cryo group (n=20) received whole-body cryotherapy alone; and the Gym group (n=20) received exercise alone. The patients' functional status was assessed using the Rivermead Mobility Index. Muscle strength and muscle function parameters were measured using a Biodex System 4 Pro multi-joint isokinetic dynamometer at angular velocities of 60°/s and 180°/s. RESULTS Improvements of knee flexor and extensor strength at both angular velocities in the measured parameters were observed in the CryoGym group, which included patients who participated in whole-body cryotherapy and an exercise program. In the Cryo and Gym groups, increases in selected parameters were also observed, particularly at an angular velocity of 60°/s. CONCLUSIONS Appropriately selected physical exercise remains the foundation of rehabilitation for patients with multiple sclerosis, effectively improving lower limb muscle strength and endurance. The use of whole-body cryotherapy as an adjunctive intervention can complement standard forms of rehabilitation. Overall, the differences between groups were limited, and the observed changes should be interpreted with caution given the sample size and duration of the study.