Exercise + Brain Games Help Thinking in MS

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Key Takeaway

Combining physical exercise (treadmill walking) with computer-based brain training gave the most lasting improvement in how people with MS feel about their thinking and also helped objective thinking skills.

What They Found

Researchers tested three programs for people with MS: computer brain training, treadmill walking, and both together. All three made people feel their thinking improved, like when you notice you're forgetting less or following conversations more easily. Only the treadmill walking and the combined program showed measurable improvement on a thinking test that times how fast you match symbols and numbers (a common test of processing speed). The combined program kept the feeling of better thinking for at least six months, while the other two did not last as long. This suggests exercise helps actual thinking speed, and adding brain training may help the improvement last longer.

Who Should Care and Why

People with MS who notice memory or thinking problems should care because these findings point to practical activities that can help. Caregivers can use this like a plan: add regular walking exercise and simple computer brain games to support thinking, similar to combining diet and exercise for heart health. Healthcare providers can recommend both exercise and cognitive exercises together to get better and longer-lasting results. Those with limited time might prioritize exercise first, since it showed clear benefit, and add short brain-training sessions to extend the gains. This approach could help with everyday tasks like following conversations, remembering appointments, or doing work more quickly.

Important Considerations

The study was fairly small (46 people finished), so results might change with larger groups or different types of MS. Not all measures improved: brain training alone didn't show a change on the timed thinking test, so it may help how people feel but not always measurable thinking speed. Because participants were chosen and guided in a clinical study, real-life results may differ depending on how often and how well someone does the exercises at home.

Categories:

Specific Symptoms Living with MS Mental Wellness

Article Topics:

Cognitive impairmentCognitive rehabilitationExercise trainingMultiple sclerosisNeurorehabilitation

Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or are seeking to broaden your understanding of this complex, neurodegenerative disease, navigating the latest research can feel overwhelming. Studies published in respected medical journals like Journal of neurology often range from early-stage, exploratory work to advanced clinical trials. These evidence-based findings help shape new disease-modifying therapies, guide symptom management techniques, and deepen our knowledge of MS progression.

However, not all research is created equal. Some clinical research studies may have smaller sample sizes, evolving methodologies, or limitations that warrant careful interpretation. For a more comprehensive, accurate understanding, we recommend reviewing the original source material—accessible via the More Details section above—and consulting with healthcare professionals who specialize in MS care.

By presenting a wide range of MS-focused studies—spanning cutting-edge treatments, emerging therapies, and established best practices—we aim to empower patients, caregivers, and clinicians to stay informed and make well-informed decisions when managing Multiple Sclerosis.

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