Difference in Motor Fatigue between Patients with Stroke and Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Movement Science

Background:

• Fatigue is a common complaint among stroke survivors, but its characteristics and comparison to multiple sclerosis (MS) fatigue remain unclear.
• Understanding the differences and similarities in fatigue pathophysiology between stroke and MS is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare motor fatigue and its impact on gait kinematics between stroke patients, MS patients, and healthy individuals.
• To evaluate the utility of the Fatigue Kliniken Schmieder (FKS) index in assessing motor fatigue in these populations.

Main Methods:

• Gait parameters were assessed at the start and end of a treadmill walking test in 10 stroke patients, 40 MS patients, and 20 healthy subjects.
• Motor fatigue was quantified using the Fatigue Kliniken Schmieder (FKS) index, which analyzes changes in movement attractors and variability.

Main Results:

• Stroke patients exhibited distinct gait abnormalities (reduced step length/height, increased step width/sway) compared to MS patients and controls, both initially and after the test.
• Six stroke patients presented with a pathological FKS, indicating motor fatigue.
• The FKS scores for motor fatigue in stroke patients were similar to those in MS patients.

Conclusions:

• Severe gait impairment in stroke patients does not always correlate with a pathological FKS, suggesting complex fatigue mechanisms.
• The FKS is a viable tool for measuring motor fatigue in stroke and MS populations and potentially other neurological conditions.