Investigation of relationship between balance and hand functions, quality of life, fatigue severity, mobility and disability status in patients with multiple sclerosis

Objective: The primary objective of this study is examining the relationship between balance and hand functions, quality of life, fatigue severity, mobility and disability status in patients with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). The secondary aim is examining the effect of cognitive and motor tasks on balance. Method: Thirty two MS, 32 healthy subjects participated in the study. Balance confidence assessed with Activity Spesific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC), balance with Biodex Balance System-BBS (Postural Stability Test-PST, Limits of Stability Test-LOS), disability status with Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), mobility with Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), fatigue severity with Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), quality of life with Multiple Sclerosis International Quality of Life Questionnaire (MusiQol) and hand functions with 9 Hole Peg Test (9HPT). Results: In MS patients ABC, TUG, 9HPT and BBS scores were significantly lower than healthy subjects (p<0,001). PST correlated with TUG (r=0,611, p=0,000) and 9HPT (r=0,718, p=0,000); LOS correlated with TUG (r=-0,388, p=0,028) and 9HPT (r=-0,389, p=0,028). Significant differences were found in all PST values with motor and cognitive tasks and without task conditions in PwMS (Friedman test, p<0,001). Conclusion: It was thought that balance assessment and training should be included in the MS rehabilitation program since there is an association between balance and hand functions and mobility in MS patients. In addition, it was thought that cognitive and motor tasks during balance rehabilitation in MS patients will increase the quality of life by providing independence of individuals in daily life activities. Keywords: Multiple Sclerosis, Balance, Hand Functions, Dual Task