[Strength, postural and gait changes following rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis: a preliminary study]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease impacting balance, gait, and muscle strength.
• Rehabilitation is a key strategy to manage MS symptoms and improve quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of a rehabilitation program on balance, gait, and strength in hospitalized patients with MS.
• To evaluate the impact of rehabilitation on functional independence in MS patients.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 21 inpatients with MS underwent a structured rehabilitation program.
• Assessments included stabilometry for balance, a locometer for gait speed, and an isokinetic dynamometer for knee extensor/flexor strength.
• The Functional Independence Measure (FIM) was used to quantify overall functional status before and after the intervention.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in balance (eyes open and closed), gait velocity, and knee extensor/flexor strength post-rehabilitation.
• Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores also showed significant improvement.
• A correlation was noted between gait speed and strength parameters, as well as between improvements in gait velocity and hamstring strength.

Conclusions:

• The rehabilitation program demonstrated positive outcomes for balance, gait, and strength in MS inpatients.
• The findings suggest that rehabilitation is an encouraging, well-tolerated, and effective intervention for individuals with MS.
• These results support the integration of comprehensive rehabilitation strategies into the care of MS patients.