A new study suggests that balance training for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) is most effective when the exercises are matched to each patient’s specific challenges. The research, published in Neurological Research and summarized by industry outlets, emphasizes personalized rehabilitation—an approach increasingly relevant for Thai patients facing MS with varied access to specialists.
MS affects hundreds of Thai families each year, and balance problems, walking difficulties, and fatigue are common daily hurdles. Traditionally, clinicians promote general balance exercises to reduce fall risk. The Turkish study challenges this one-size-fits-all approach, showing that customized programs may yield better outcomes. For Thai readers, this underscores the importance of discussing tailored plans with doctors and therapists, especially in regions outside Bangkok where specialists are scarce.
In the study, 35 MS patients were assigned to three exercise groups over 12 weeks. The first group performed standard balance exercises (SBE) like heel-to-toe walking and balance-board activities—routines often seen in Thai clinics and community centers. The second group practiced vestibular exercises (VE) to strengthen the brain’s sense of head and body position, involving movements like head turns and eyes-closed balance tasks. The third group focused on cervical stabilization exercises (CSE) to improve neck and upper spine control, a key factor for maintaining good posture.
Participants trained three times per week for 45 minutes each session. They were then tested on walking endurance, balance, and functional movement—skills essential for navigating busy streets, markets, and public transport in Thailand. Results showed both VE and CSE outperformed the standard balance group. VE and CSE participants improved notably on the two-minute walk test and the functional reach test, indicating better walking speed and balance control. Importantly, the CSE group showed superior gains in dynamic movement tests, such as tasks requiring rapid changes in posture, reflecting improvements Thai elders often perform during temple visits or family gatherings.
The SBE group did not show significant improvements in core measures, a finding important for families who may rely on common, online “home workouts.” A Thai rehabilitation expert notes that personalizing therapy—whether prioritizing vestibular training for static balance or neck stability for dynamic movement—can translate into meaningful daily improvements.
Follow-up six months after training supported the benefits of a tailored approach. VE participants maintained gains in static and complex balance tasks, while the CSE group preserved dynamic balance improvements and faster movement initiation. Both groups reported reduced fatigue, a frequent concern for Thai MS patients, suggesting that targeted exercises can also enhance daily energy levels.
Statistical analysis clarified practical guidance: vestibular exercises are best for static balance and walking speed, while cervical stabilization yields better dynamic balance and endurance. Practically, clinicians should assess whether a patient’s gait difficulty stems from speed or endurance to choose the right modality.
Thailand’s aging population and rising recognition of MS in public health policy make these findings timely. Data from the Thai Neurological Society indicate that up to a quarter of reported MS patients report balance or walking as their primary disability. In rural areas, families often rely on general exercises, but the study suggests that symptom-specific training may produce better long-term outcomes. The idea resonates with Thai medical culture’s emphasis on holistic, patient-centered care.
Historically, Thai rehabilitation blends Western methods with traditional practices such as Thai massage and movement therapies. Integrating new evidence with these cultural approaches could improve adherence, perhaps by pairing posture training with mindful movement routines rooted in local practices.
However, researchers caution about limitations: small sample size and exclusion of more severely disabled individuals mean results should be interpreted cautiously. More research is needed to determine if similar benefits would appear in broader Thai populations, including rural communities with limited supervised therapy access.
Looking ahead, Thai health authorities could incorporate these insights into MS rehabilitation guidelines and public education campaigns. Hospitals could train physical therapists and home caregivers in targeted techniques, while online platforms could provide home-based, Thai-language instruction. MS charities and support groups can disseminate culturally relevant guidance, empowering patients and families to pursue personalized plans safely.
For individuals with MS and their caregivers, the message is clear: seek a professional assessment to identify the most troublesome movement challenges—standing still, walking endurance, or walking speed—and request a tailored exercise program. When possible, work with a physical therapist experienced in MS. For those outside major cities, connect with national MS organizations for resources and online guidance. Targeted, individualized exercises offer a hopeful path to better daily living in Thailand.
Sources: Research summarized by MS-focused outlets; study details from the original publication and the PubMed abstract. In-text attribution reflects institutional involvement and expert commentary.