Effect of Ten-Week Lower Limb Progressive Resistance Training on Muscle Quality of Life and Fatigue in Adults With Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type Iii



Sohrabi K¹ ; Gaeini AA¹ ; Shirzad E² ; Khorshidi S² ; Nafissi S³ ; Fateh HR⁴ Show Affiliations
Source: Tehran University Medical Journal Published:2024

Abstract

Background: Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by a mutation in the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene. It is classified into five types (from type 0 to 4) based on the age of onset of symptoms and maximum motor function. This autosomal recessive mutation results in progressive weakness and atrophy of the proximal muscles. Due to the high cost of treatment, the critical timing of intervention, and the varied responses of patients, many individuals do not sufficiently benefit from current therapeutic methods. This study evaluates the impact of resistance training on the quality of life and fatigue in patients with SMA type III, considering the potential benefits of such training. Methods: The present study was developmental and semi-experimental. Fourteen ambulatory patients with SMA type III were randomly assigned to exercise and control groups. The exercise group engaged in lower limb resistance training at an intensity of 6 to 8 on an adult resistance exercise scale for 10 weeks (25 sessions). During this period, the control group maintained their usual daily activities. Patients in the exercise group did not engage in any exercise activity other than the protocol of the present study. Patients' quality of life was measured with the Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire, and fatigue severity was measured with the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), both evaluated pre- and post-intervention. The assessments and exercises were conducted in the occupational therapy department of Shariati Hospital, Tehran, from July 2023 to September 2023. Results: Analysis of the results showed significant improvements (P<0.05) in the exercise group compared to the control group in the subscales of physical functioning and fatigue within the quality of life assessment. Additionally, notable differences were found between the groups on the fatigue intensity scale. However, No significant difference was observed in the patients' Body Mass Index (BMI) measurements. Conclusion: Progressive resistance training of the lower limbs enhances the quality of life and reduces fatigue in patients with SMA type III. Copyright © 2024 Sohrabi et al. Published by Tehran University of Medical Sciences.