STRONG-MS Study

Study Aim Description

People with multiple sclerosis (MS) often experience lower bone density and earlier onset of Osteoporosis, increasing the risk of falls and/or fractures. The STRONG-MS study is evaluating a High-Intensity Resistance and Impact Training (HiRIT) program, to see whether it can improve bone health, muscle strength, mobility, and quality of life in people with MS. Over the course of 12-months, exercise sessions will be attended twice-weekly, each lasting 30-minutes. Participants are randomly allocated to the intervention group or usual care group.

What is this about?

The STRONG-MS study is testing a specialised group-based exercise program called ONERO^TM, which uses High-Intensity Resistance and Impact Training (HiRIT). This type of training has been shown to improve bone health and muscle strength in older adults, and we’re now trialling its use in people living with MS.

Participants will attend supervised sessions twice a week for 12 months. These are short, 30-minute sessions delivered by trained professionals. After the initial year, we’ll continue to follow participants for another 12 months to assess longer-term benefits.

Why Participate?

• Improve Health: Structured HiRIT program designed to increase muscle strength, bone health and physical function.
• Personalised Support: Work in small groups with physiotherapists during twice-weekly 30-minute sessions for 12 months at no cost to you.
• Contribute to Research: The findings will further research on the benefits of HiRIT programs for bone health and muscle strength in people with multiple sclerosis.

Study Eligibility

• Aged 30 or over
• Diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (all subtypes)
• Able to independently weight bear for > 10 minutes
• Able to undertake a minimum of three or four core resistance exercises

For more information on how to participate in this study at the Perron Institute, subjects can contact Christopher Todaro, Research Assistant at Deakin University (central referral hub).