McMaster researchers want to know how people with multiple sclerosis might be helped by playing Tetris

Diane Bouwman, diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2001, said the disease can make you lose your confidence.

“I've had so many falls,” she told CBC Hamilton.

“That’s the biggest thing you lose, your confidence, the more you fall.”

Thanks to a McMaster University research program, playing the classic video game Tetris, helped her get it back.

Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a neurological disease of the central nervous system. It makes the immune system attack myelin — a membrane which covers the nerves. The most common symptoms include fatigue, poor balance, weakness, tingling or numbness, vision problems and mood changes, according to MS Canada.

MS has no cure and can get worse over the years through different stages.

Bouwman joined the study in February 2024 and, for 6 weeks, she travelled to Hamilton from her home in Kitchener, Ont., three times per week, got her body hooked up to a computer, and played Tetris.

Stephen Toepp, who came up with the study, said he was trying to develop an accessible way to exercise instead of more traditional methods like lifting weights.

Toepp is a PhD fellow at McMaster’s department of kinesiology. He said participants connect to a computer, and are asked to make specific movements that are linked to Tetris inputs.

“Those movements are tailored based on what we're trying to improve,” he said.

Then, the participants play the game by performing body movements.

“The point isn't necessarily to play the game,” said Toepp. “The point is to put them in a position that is challenging.”

McMaster’s Neuro Lab is currently looking for more participants diagnosed with MS to continue the study. Those interested can visit the lab’s website and email Toepp.

Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world, according to the MS International Federation. It is estimated that around 90,000 Canadians have the disease, according to MS Canada.