Article

OBJECTIVE: To estimate, for persons with multiple sclerosis (MS), the extent to
which peak oxygen consumption (Vo(2)peak) can be predicted by the results on
submaximal tests. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING: Three MS clinics in the
Greater Montreal region, Canada. PARTICIPANTS: A center-stratified random sample
of 135 women and 48 men was drawn (N=183). A subgroup of 59 subjects with MS, who
were able to perform the step test, was selected from this sample to complete the
maximal exercise test. INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE:
Vo(2)peak. RESULTS: In this sample (mean age +/- SD, 39 +/- 9 y; median Expanded
Disability Status Scale=1.5), the mean Vo(2)peak +/- SD was 27.6 +/- 7.3
mL.kg(-1).min(-1). This value is considerably low when compared with healthy
persons, ranking below the 25th percentile for both men and women. In a
multivariate regression analysis, the step test and grip strength were identified
as the only significant predictors of Vo(2)peak. When combined with body weight,
grip strength and the step test explained 74% of the variance in Vo(2)peak.
CONCLUSIONS: Patients with MS with a mild degree of disability exhibit marked
reductions in exercise capacity. Also, in persons with MS, submaximal tests are
good predictors of exercise capacity. These measures may be used in clinical
settings to help assess and monitor maximum oxygen consumption and in research to
evaluate the effect of exercise-related interventions. Furthermore, they will
allow people with MS to self-monitor their exercise capacity and be more actively
engaged in taking charge of their fitness level.

Langue : ANGLAIS