Muscle strength, muscle power, and explosive muscle strength is impaired in persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) compared with healthy controls (HC), according to a recent study. Progressive resistance training, however, can improve muscle mechanical function in PwMS. A systematic literature search was performed in 8 databases. To be included in the review, the study had to enroll participants with a confirmed diagnosis of MS, assess muscle mechanical function, and had undergone peer-review. Researchers found:

• Compared to matched HC, PwMS displayed impaired muscle strength, power, and explosive muscle strength.
• Muscle strength impairments were most pronounced during maximal moderate to fast dynamic muscle contractions of the lower extremities.
• Progressive resistance training had a small but significant effect on muscle mechanical function in PwMS.