Comparison of Micro-Dosing Exercise (Short, Frequent Sessions) vs. Conventional Exercise Programs for Patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Abstract

Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by demyelination and progressive disability, often resulting in impaired mobility, fatigue, and reduced quality of life. Exercise interventions are widely recommended for symptom management, yet adherence to conventional programs is often limited by fatigue and disease-related barriers. Micro-dosing exercise, defined as short bouts performed multiple times daily, has been proposed as a feasible alternative that may improve outcomes while enhancing adherence. Objective: To compare the effects of micro-dosing exercise with conventional exercise programs on physical function, fatigue, muscle strength, and quality of life in individuals with MS. Methods: Sixty MS patients were randomized to either a micro-dosing group (5–10 minute sessions, 3–4 times daily; n=30) or a conventional exercise group (30–45 minutes, three times weekly; n=30). Interventions lasted eight weeks. Outcomes included Timed 25-Foot Walk (T25FW), 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29), and handgrip strength, assessed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. Statistical analyses used repeated measures ANOVA with p<0.05 considered significant. Results: Both groups improved across outcomes, but the micro-dosing group showed significantly greater gains in walking speed (T25FW, p=0.02), endurance (6MWT, +25 m vs +15 m, p=0.01), and fatigue reduction (FSS, –1.4 vs –0.6, p=0.03). Quality of life improved more substantially in the micro-dosing group (MSIS-29, –12.5 vs –6.5, p=0.01). Strength gains were comparable. Conclusion: Micro-dosing exercise provided superior improvements in mobility, fatigue, and quality of life compared to conventional training, with equivalent strength gains and better adherence, highlighting its potential as a practical rehabilitation strategy for MS.