Introduction: Multiple sclerosis is the most common demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Its diverse symptoms affect the patient’s level of functioning. Aerobic capacity, which is the most important component of physical fitness, can also be affected. The extent of difference in aerobic capacity between patients with higher functional status and healthy population, and its relationship to stair negotiation time, has not been yet investigated in detail. Purpose: To assess aerobic capacity of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis with higher functional status and to determine its relationship to stair negotiation time. Methods: The multiple sclerosis group consisted of 20 patients with a diagnosis of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (⡤ 3 according to Expanded Disability Status Scale, EDSS), whereas a control group consisted of 20 healthy subjects. To assess the value of aerobic capacity, we performed a single-stage submaximal walking test on a treadmill. We used a timed stair test on a 12-step staircase to evaluate subjects’ functional ability. We also assessed rate of perceived exertion with 15-stage Borg scale during the tests. Results: The estimated aerobic capacity, stair negotiation time and ratings of perceived exertion were not significantly different between the groups. Heart rate at the end of the aerobic capacity test showed tendency (p = 0.073) of being higher in the patient group. A negative linear relationship between aerobic capacity and stair negotiation time (r = -0,49; p < 0,05) was observed only in the patient group. Discussion and conclusion: That aerobic capacity of patients was comparable to the capacity of healthy subjects is probably a reflection of their otherwise good functional status according to EDSS, which allows them to perform sufficient physical activity in everyday life. The moderate negative association between aerobic capacity and stair negotiation time pinpoints the importance of the cardiorespiratory capacity for performing daily activities in this patient population. We assume that stronger association between the two variables would have emerge in both groups, if a longer and more strenuous test protocol was used to assess stair negotiation time.
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