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Updated: Oct 21, 2025
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The Multiple Sclerosis Performance Test MSPT: An iPad-Based Disability Assessment Tool
Published on: June 30, 2014
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Pain, cognition and disability in advanced multiple sclerosis.
Rogier J Scherder1, Angela J Prins2, Marit J van Dorp3
1Medical Faculty, Vrije Universiteit, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Scandinavian Journal of Pain
|September 1, 2021
Summary
Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with lower executive functions (EF) and higher physical disabilities report more pain. Cognitive and physical impairments in MS may increase pain suffering and hinder pain communication, risking undertreatment.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Psychology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with physical disability and pain.
- Cognitive impairments are also common in MS.
- The interplay between pain, cognition, and physical disability in MS requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between pain and cognitive functioning in MS patients.
- To determine if physical disability mediates the relationship between pain and cognitive function.
Main Methods:
- Forty-five MS patients with chronic pain and advanced disease were assessed.
- Physical disability was measured using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS).
- Cognitive functions (episodic memory, executive functions) and pain (intensity, affect) were evaluated using standardized tests and scales. Mood was also assessed.
Main Results:
- A significant relationship was observed between Pain Affect and Executive Functions (EF), independent of physical disability.
- Pain Intensity showed a significant relationship with EF only when combined with physical disability (EDSS).
- Mood (depression, anxiety) was significantly related to Pain Affect.
Conclusions:
- Lower executive functions, particularly when combined with greater physical disability, are associated with increased pain in MS patients.
- Cognitive and physical impairments may exacerbate pain and reduce the ability to communicate pain, potentially leading to underdiagnosis and undertreatment.
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