The effects of Pilates training combined with whole-body vibration on balance and mobility in people with multiple sclerosis: A single-blind randomized controlled clinical trial

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the effects of Pilates training combined with whole-body vibration (WBV) on balance, functional mobility, core muscle endurance and power, lower extremity strength, upper extremity performance, and fatigue in people with multiple sclerosis. Patients and methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted between December 2023 and September 2024. Thirty-four participants (9 males, 25 females; mean age: 36.65 ± 12.24 years; range 20 to 65 years) were included in the study and randomized into two groups: Pilates-WBV (n=17) and Pilates (n=17). The Pilates-WBV group received both Pilates and WBV training, while the Pilates group received only Pilates training. Both groups received training twice a week for six weeks. The primary outcomes included posturography, the Activities-Specific Balance Confidence Scale, core muscle endurance and power tests, the five times sit-to-stand test, the timed up-and-go test, and the 6-min walk test. The secondary outcomes included the nine-hole peg test, the Fatigue Severity Scale, and the Fatigue Impact Scale. Assessments were conducted at baseline and after intervention. Results: Both groups showed significant improvements in single-leg stance stability, limits of stability, balance confidence, core muscle endurance and power, functional mobility, upper extremity performance, and fatigue (p<0.05). Double-leg stance stability and walking distance improved only in the Pilates-WBV group (p<0.05). The Pilates-WBV group also showed greater improvements in trunk flexor endurance and core power (modified push-up test) compared to the Pilates group. Conclusion: Pilates training combined with WBV improved core stability, walking endurance, and physical performance more than Pilates training alone in people with multiple sclerosis.