The effectiveness of tele-rehabilitation methods on respiratory functions in multiple sclerosis patients

INTRODUCTION AND AIM: Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease, and it has been shown to negatively affect respiratory functions depending on the extent of involvement and the course of the disease. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between respiratory exercises applied through tele-rehabilitation method and respiratory functions in MS patients, and to demonstrate their impact on fatigue levels, quality of life, and functional level. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Within the scope of the study, 50 MS patients were divided into tele-rehabilitation and control groups, consisting of 25 individuals each, after initial evaluations. Respiratory exercises were applied twice a week for 8 weeks. The tele-rehabilitation group performed their exercises through online video calls, while the control group performed home exercises. After obtaining demographic data, Respiratory Function Test, Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 (MSQL-54), and 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) were performed for assessment. RESULTS: As a result of the evaluation, significant increases were observed in FEV1(L), PEF (L), PEF (%), FEF%25-75 (L) values in both groups. Additionally, both groups showed a decrease in fatigue, an improvement in quality of life, and an increase in 6MWT distance. CONCLUSION: It was observed that respiratory exercises have a positive effect on respiratory functions in MS patients, and there was no significant difference in the application of these exercises through tele-rehabilitation. Keywords: Fatigue Severity Scale , Multiple Sclerosis, Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54, Respiratory Function Test, Tele-rehabilitation,