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Home-Based Monitor for Gait and Activity Analysis
Published on: August 8, 2019
Ambulatory activity in individuals with multiple sclerosis.
James T Cavanaugh1, Victor O Gappmaier, Leland E Dibble
1Department of Physical Therapy, University of New England, Portland, Maine, USA. jcavanaugh@une.edu
Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy : JNPT
|April 9, 2011
Summary
Individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) show varied physical activity levels, with disability significantly impacting daily step counts and activity duration. Interventions should consider the specific disability status of those with MS.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Science
- Physical Activity Research
Background:
- Physical activity limitations in multiple sclerosis (MS) are not fully understood.
- MS disability significantly affects ambulatory behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine how MS disability impacts physical activity during ambulation.
- To explore the relationship between ambulatory activity and clinical measures of gait, balance, and fatigue.
Main Methods:
- 21 adults with MS (11 without ambulatory limitation, 10 with) wore step activity monitors for up to 7 days.
- Assessed overall activity, upper activity limits, and activity work-rest cycles.
- Utilized clinical measures including EDSS, MSWS, T25FW, TUG, 6MW, DGI, BBS, ABCS, and MFIS.
Main Results:
- Participants without ambulatory limitation were more active with higher activity limits and longer bouts.
- Daily step count strongly correlated with gait and balance measures.
- EDSS and MSWS scores were most related to daily step count.
Conclusions:
- Many individuals with MS are not sedentary but few meet recommended activity levels.
- Ambulatory activity patterns offer new insights into MS-related physical limitations.
- Disability status is crucial for tailoring physical activity interventions in MS.
