Interested in improving your muscle strength and bone health?

Women participating in Onero program - using balance exercises.

What is STRONG-MS?

STRONG-MS is an important research collaboration between Deakin University, Monash University, Griffith University, Edith Cowan University, Perron Institute and The Bone Clinic (among others).

People with multiple sclerosis (MS) have significantly lower bone density and muscle strength due to reduced physical activity, lack of mobility, vitamin D deficiency and long-term use of corticosteroids. This may lead to a higher risk of osteoporosis and associated falls and physical injuries (e.g., fractures, bone bruising).

This study examines the effectiveness, acceptability and feasibility of ONERO™: a supervised, High-Intensity Resistance and Impact Training (HiRIT) program that may improve bone health and muscle strength in people with MS.

Flowchart outlining participation in the STRONG-MS study held across sites (e.g., Monash Health, Perron Institute, The Bone Clinic, South East Leisure, MS Plus) in Victoria, Western Australia and Queensland.

What is Involved?

Participation in the STRONG-MS research study involves the following:

  • Fill out the basic eligibility survey and your contact details so one of our research team members can get in touch with you

  • If allocated to the intervention group:

    • Attend supervised ONERO™ sessions twice a week for 12 months

  • If allocated to the control group:

    • Attend your usual healthcare practices/services for 12 months

  • After 12 months, option for both groups to join/continue the ONERO™ for another 12 months

  • Complete health assessments (e.g., bone density scans, physical/mobility/cognitive tasks) at enrolment, 12-months and 24-months

  • Complete self-reported surveys about your condition, physical activity and wellbeing at enrolment, 12-months and 24-months

What is

ONERO™ is:

  • An evidence-based, accredited exercise program, which consists of High-Intensity Resistance and Impact Training (HiRIT)

  • It is targeted at adults with low bone density

ONERO™ sessions are:

  • 30-minutes in duration

  • Twice weekly

  • Supervised by accredited physiotherapists and exercise physiologists (ONERO™ should not be attempted without an instructor present)

I want to participate!

Sign-up form

Contact information

0432 557 678

strong-ms@deakin.edu.au