A highly challenging balance training intervention for people with multiple sclerosis: a feasibility trial

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Science
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Balance training interventions with progressive difficulty for multiple sclerosis (MS) are scarce.
• Existing interventions for Parkinson's disease can be adapted for MS through co-design.
• A pilot trial is essential to evaluate the feasibility of a large-scale study for MS balance training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To adapt a balance training intervention for people with MS.
• To assess the feasibility of conducting a full-scale trial based on the adapted intervention.
• To evaluate the suitability of outcome measures for future studies.

Main Methods:

• A 10-week, twice or thrice weekly, 1-hour balance training program was delivered to 12 individuals with MS.
• Feasibility data, including recruitment, retention, and adherence, were collected throughout the study.
• Physical, cognitive, and quality of life outcomes were assessed, with the Mini-BESTest selected for balance control evaluation.

Main Results:

• Retention and attendance criteria were not met, primarily due to external factors.
• Study procedures, intervention delivery, and exercise progression were deemed feasible for a full-scale trial.
• The Mini-BESTest demonstrated suitability as a primary outcome measure, showing a positive trend in balance control.

Conclusions:

• The adapted balance training intervention and trial procedures are feasible for a larger study in people with MS.
• Adjustments to the intervention protocol are necessary to improve participant retention and attendance.
• The Mini-BESTest is a promising outcome measure for future MS balance research.