Balance, gait, and falls in multiple sclerosis.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Disability Studies

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic central nervous system (CNS) disease causing widespread disability.
• It affects balance, gait, and fall risk due to CNS lesions, impacting mobility and daily life.
• Abnormalities in postural control and gait are prevalent, even in early disease stages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the impact of MS on balance, gait, and fall risk.
• To describe the multifaceted nature of balance dysfunction in MS.
• To highlight the implications of gait and balance impairments for individuals with MS.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on MS, balance, gait, and falls.
• Analysis of clinical symptoms and lesion effects on CNS function.
• Conceptualization of balance dysfunction in MS.

Main Results:

• 50-80% of MS patients exhibit balance and gait dysfunction.
• Over 50% experience at least one fall annually.
• Balance issues include impaired postural control, limited stability, delayed responses, and dual-task deficits.
• Gait changes involve reduced speed, impaired balance, and decreased physical activity.

Conclusions:

• Imbalance, gait dysfunction, and falls are common and significant challenges in MS.
• Falls contribute to injuries, reduced participation, and fear of falling.
• A range of rehabilitation and medical interventions exist to manage these MS-related issues.