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Comparing routine neurorehabilitation program with trunk exercises based on Bobath concept in multiple sclerosis:
Ilke Keser1, Nuray Kirdi, Aydin Meric
1Gazi University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Beşevler/Ankara, Turkey. ilkekeser@yahoo.com
Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development
|March 22, 2013
Summary
Trunk exercises based on the Bobath concept are as effective as routine neurorehabilitation for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. This study found no significant differences between the two approaches in improving function and balance.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Physical Therapy
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) poses significant challenges to patient mobility and quality of life.
- Current neurorehabilitation for MS often involves routine exercises, but specific trunk-focused approaches like the Bobath concept are less explored.
- Effective rehabilitation strategies are crucial for managing MS-related functional impairments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of Bobath concept-based trunk exercises against routine neurorehabilitation in multiple sclerosis patients.
- To evaluate the impact of these interventions on trunk control, balance, ataxia, and overall functional status.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving two groups of multiple sclerosis patients undergoing an 8-week, 3-day/week rehabilitation program.
- The experimental group received Bobath concept trunk exercises, while the control group received routine neurorehabilitation exercises.
- Both groups also performed balance and coordination exercises. Assessments included the Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale (ICARS), and Multiple Sclerosis Functional Composite (MSFC).
Main Results:
- Both rehabilitation approaches led to significant improvements in TIS, BBS, ICARS, and MSFC scores, as well as abdominal muscle strength within each group (p < 0.05).
- No statistically significant differences were observed when comparing the Bobath concept group to the routine neurorehabilitation group across all measured parameters (p > 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Trunk exercises based on the Bobath concept demonstrate comparable effectiveness to routine neurorehabilitation in improving outcomes for multiple sclerosis patients.
- The Bobath concept offers a viable and beneficial alternative or addition to standard rehabilitation programs for individuals with MS.
- Further research into specialized techniques like the Bobath concept can enhance MS rehabilitation strategies.
