Update on rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Mobility impairment, particularly affecting balance and walking, is a primary characteristic of multiple sclerosis (MS).
• Rehabilitation therapy is essential for managing MS-related functional decline throughout the disease's progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated review of rehabilitation strategies for balance and walking impairments in multiple sclerosis.
• To evaluate the efficacy of various therapeutic techniques and emerging technologies in MS rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of current rehabilitation literature focusing on balance and gait in multiple sclerosis.
• Analysis of evidence for classical, complementary, and novel rehabilitation techniques.

Main Results:

• Classical rehabilitation (muscle rehabilitation, neurotherapeutic facilitation) is effective and recommended for MS.
• Emerging technologies like serious games and telerehabilitation show potential for enhancing physical activity and quality of life.
• Multidisciplinary programs yield positive patient outcomes but require further evaluation.

Conclusions:

• Traditional rehabilitation methods remain foundational for MS management.
• Further research is needed to validate newer techniques, including robot-assisted therapy and non-invasive stimulation.
• Personalized, multidisciplinary rehabilitation with patient-centered goal setting is key for optimal outcomes in multiple sclerosis.