Multiple sclerosis and postural control: the role of spasticity

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Science
• Motor Control

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative disease affecting balance.
• Spasticity is a common symptom in MS that may impair postural control.
• Understanding the relationship between spasticity and postural control is crucial for managing MS-related disability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between spasticity and postural control in individuals with MS.
• To quantify postural control deficits in MS patients with varying levels of spasticity.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted in a motor control laboratory.
• 16 participants with MS (Expanded Disability Status Scale 0-4.5, Modified Ashworth Scale 1-3) and 16 age/sex-matched controls participated.
• Postural control was assessed using a force platform measuring center of pressure (COP) parameters; spasticity was indexed by the soleus Hoffman reflex (H-reflex).

Main Results:

• Cluster analysis revealed two groups of MS participants: high spasticity (n=7) and low spasticity (n=9).
• The high spasticity group exhibited significantly greater COP area, velocity, and mediolateral sway compared to the low spasticity and control groups.
• No significant differences in anterior-posterior sway were observed between groups, but the low spasticity group showed intermediate postural control values.

Conclusions:

• Spasticity is a significant contributing factor to postural control impairments in individuals with multiple sclerosis.
• These findings highlight the importance of managing spasticity to improve balance and reduce fall risk in MS patients.