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Published on: January 29, 2016
Evaluation of a home-based physiotherapy programme for those with moderate to severe multiple sclerosis: a randomized
1MS Service, NHS Ayrshire and Arran, School of Health, Glasgow Caledonian University, Irvine, UK. linda.miller2@aaaht.scot.nhs.uk
Clinical Rehabilitation
|April 21, 2011
Summary
This pilot study explored home-based physiotherapy for multiple sclerosis (MS). While not statistically significant, the intervention group showed more positive changes in MS symptoms and physical function than the control group.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease causing physical impairment, disability, and psychological distress.
- Current management often involves rehabilitation, but home-based options for moderate to severe MS require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of an eight-week home-based physiotherapy program in mitigating physical impairment, disability, and psychological distress in individuals with moderate to severe MS.
- To assess the impact of this intervention on MS-related symptoms and quality of life.
Main Methods:
- A pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted in community settings, with participants receiving care in their homes.
- Thirty participants with moderate to severe MS (EDSS 6.5-8) were randomized into an intervention group (twice-weekly home physiotherapy for eight weeks) or a control group (usual care).
- Outcome measures, including the Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS29), physical impairment, MS symptoms, quality of life, mood, and disability, were assessed at baseline, week 8, and week 16.
Main Results:
- While the Group*Time interaction did not reach statistical significance for the MSIS29, MS-related symptom checklist (MS-RS), or lower limb strength measures, the intervention group demonstrated a trend towards altered levels compared to the control group.
- This suggests a potential positive effect of the home-based physiotherapy program, warranting further investigation.
Conclusions:
- A larger-scale study with a minimum of 58 subjects per group is required to achieve 80% power at the 5% significance level for the MSIS29 outcome measure.
- The findings support the need for further research into the effectiveness of home-based physiotherapy for individuals with moderate to severe MS.
