Group-Based Individualized Comprehensive Core Stability Intervention Improves Balance in Persons With Multiple...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) frequently experience impaired balance and trunk control.
• Effective interventions are crucial for managing these functional deficits in MS patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the immediate and long-term effects of a 6-week comprehensive core stability intervention (GroupCoreDIST) against standard care.
• To assess the impact on balance and trunk control in individuals with MS.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, assessor-masked, randomized controlled trial involving 80 participants with MS (Expanded Disability Status scores 1-6.5).
• Participants were randomized to either the GroupCoreDIST intervention (n=40) or standard care (n=40).
• Assessments of trunk impairment, balance, and patient-reported outcomes were conducted at baseline and at weeks 7, 18, and 30.

Main Results:

• The GroupCoreDIST intervention demonstrated significant improvements in Trunk Impairment Scale-Norwegian Version and Mini Balance Evaluation Systems Test scores at all post-intervention time points (weeks 7, 18, 30) compared to standard care.
• Patient Global Impression of Change-Balance scores also showed significant improvements favoring the GroupCoreDIST group at 7, 18, and 30 weeks.
• The study included 79 participants in the intention-to-treat analysis, with no significant between-group differences noted for physical therapy volume.

Conclusions:

• A 6-week GroupCoreDIST intervention effectively improved balance and trunk control in individuals with MS in both the short and long term.
• This core stability program represents a valuable addition to physical therapy strategies for managing functional impairments in the MS population.