Effects of a Home-Based Upper Limb Training Program in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: A Randomized Controlled...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) often leads to impaired upper limb function, affecting daily activities.
• Existing interventions may not always be accessible or convenient for individuals with MS.
• Home-based rehabilitation offers a potential solution for consistent therapeutic engagement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of a home-based upper limb training program for patients with MS.
• To evaluate the program's impact on arm function, manual dexterity, handgrip strength, and finger prehension force.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, single-blind controlled trial involving 37 participants with MS and impaired manual ability.
• An 8-week supervised, twice-weekly home-based upper limb training program for the experimental group.
• A control group received educational materials on upper limb exercises.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in arm function, measured by the Action Research Arm Test and finger tapping test, were observed in the experimental group.
• The intervention group showed enhanced manual dexterity, handgrip strength, and finger prehension force in the most affected limb.
• Improvements were statistically significant (P<.05) compared to the control group.

Conclusions:

• An 8-week home-based upper limb training program is effective in improving arm function in patients with MS.
• The intervention positively impacts key physiological variables related to upper limb performance.
• Home-based programs can be a valuable component of rehabilitation for individuals with MS.