Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 1, 2025
Home-Based Monitor for Gait and Activity Analysis
Published on: August 8, 2019
Non-ambulatory measures of lower extremity sensorimotor function are associated with walking function in Multiple
Sumire Sato1, John Buonaccorsi2, Jules D Miehm3
1Neuroscience and Behavior Program, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States; Department of Kinesiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States; Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States.
Sensorimotor function, specifically foot-tapping and skin sensitivity, differs between multiple sclerosis (MS) subtypes. In relapsing-remitting MS, poorer walking is linked to reduced sensorimotor function, unlike in progressive MS.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) progression is often monitored using walking ability.
- The relationship between non-walking (non-ambulatory) sensorimotor functions and walking performance across different MS subtypes remains unclear.
- This study investigates differences in lower extremity sensorimotor function and walking tasks among relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), progressive MS (PMS), and non-MS controls.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify characteristic differences in lower extremity sensorimotor function and walking performance between RRMS, PMS, and non-MS control groups.
- To examine the associations between specific sensorimotor measures and walking function within each MS subtype.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated plantar cutaneous sensitivity (vibration perception threshold), ankle proprioception (joint position matching), and motor coordination (foot-tapping speed).
- Assessed walking function using the Timed 25-foot walk (T25FW) and Timed Up-and-Go (TUG) tests.
- Compared these measures across 18 RRMS, 13 PMS, and 28 non-MS control participants.
Main Results:
- Significant differences were found in foot-tapping speed and plantar cutaneous sensitivity between MS subtypes.
- In the RRMS group, faster walking (T25FW, TUG) correlated with better proprioception and foot-tapping performance.
- These sensorimotor-walking associations were not significant in the progressive MS (PMS) group.
Conclusions:
- Foot-tap performance and plantar cutaneous sensitivity, but not ankle proprioception, distinguish between MS subtypes.
- Reduced walking performance in RRMS is associated with diminished foot-tapping and plantar sensation.
- The relationship between sensorimotor function and walking performance appears altered in progressive MS.
