Comparing the effect of in water vs. land vs. combined land–water training on functional mobility and balance in women with multiple sclerosis: a Burdenko method

Background Reduction of motor abilities, mobility, and imbalance are daily issues in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Aims The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of 8 weeks in water vs land vs combined water and land training on functional mobility and balance on the basis of the Burdenko method. Methods Thirty-one women with MS aged 30–50 years old, EDSS < 4.5 participated in this study. The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the TUG (timed up and go test) were recorded. Results Within-group comparisons showed a significant improvement in functional mobility and balance of subjects after all the land, water and combined water–land exercises. The between-group comparisons showed that three environment exercises had a different effect on functional mobility (power = 0.769, P = 0.009 and F = 5.582). There was a significant difference between the land and water exercise groups ( P < 0.05). There was, however,no significant difference among the three types of exercise in the balance (power = 0.329, P = 0.294, and F = 1.283). Conclusion Both the in water and land exercise environment can have sufficient efficiency in improving balance and functional mobility. Given the availability of facilities and equipment, both training in the land and water can be used as appropriate rehabilitation processes of MS patients.