Mobility Disorders in Stroke, Parkinson Disease, and Multiple Sclerosis: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Science
• Movement Science

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson disease (PD), and stroke are common neurological conditions causing mobility challenges.
• Understanding distinct mobility profiles and their impact on daily life is crucial for effective rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare mobility impairments in patients with MS, PD, and stroke.
• To determine the relationship between specific mobility deficits and participation restrictions.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter, cross-sectional study involving 299 patients with MS, PD, or stroke undergoing rehabilitation.
• Assessment of gait speed (10-meter walk test), static balance (Berg Balance Scale), dynamic balance and mobility (Timed Up and Go, Dynamic Gait Index), and participation (Community Integration Questionnaire).

Main Results:

• Stroke patients exhibited the slowest gait speed (0.9 m/sec) compared to PD (1.1 m/sec) and MS (1.2 m/sec).
• Multiple sclerosis patients showed greater limitations in dynamic balance (Timed Up and Go, Dynamic Gait Index).
• Static balance (Berg Balance Scale) was more affected in PD and stroke patients than in MS patients. Balance disorders, not gait speed, were linked to participation restrictions.

Conclusions:

• Neurological conditions uniquely affect gait and balance, leading to varying degrees of participation restrictions.
• Targeting balance interventions may be key to improving community participation for individuals with these conditions.