Exercise in 94 degrees F water for a patient with multiple sclerosis.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The purpose of this case report is to describe the examination, intervention, and outcome of a patient with multiple sclerosis (MS) who participated in a comprehensive rehabilitation program that included aquatic therapy with a pool temperature of 94 degrees F. There are few descriptions of aquatic exercise programs on muscle force, exercise tolerance, and functional outcomes in individuals with MS, and most authors recommend a water temperature of less than 85 degrees F to prevent an exacerbation of symptoms.

DESCRIPTION

The patient was a 33-year-old woman. Before, during, and after the aquatic program, she was monitored for body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and perceived exertion. She was also assessed for muscle force and functional abilities.

OUTCOMES

The patient did not experience heat sensitivity or fatigue throughout the program, and her manual muscle test grades and mobility improved.

DISCUSSION

This patient's participation in aquatic therapy, in conjunction with land-based interventions, may have been associated with the improvement in functional abilities.