The relationship between trunk control, spinal posture, and spinal mobility in patients with multiple sclerosis: a...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Trunk control is vital for balance and mobility, but it is often compromised in patients with multiple sclerosis (PwMS).
• Various factors, including sensory, motor, and musculoskeletal systems, influence trunk control.
• Understanding trunk control deficits in PwMS is essential for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare trunk control, spinal mobility, and spinal posture between PwMS and healthy controls.
• To investigate the relationship between trunk control and spinal parameters in PwMS.

Main Methods:

• The study included 38 PwMS and 38 age- and sex-matched healthy controls.
• Trunk control was assessed using the Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS).
• Spinal posture and mobility were measured using the IDIAG M360 Spinal Mouse in sagittal and frontal planes.

Main Results:

• PwMS showed significantly lower TIS scores, reduced thoracic mobility (flexion, left lateral flexion), reduced lumbar mobility (extension, right lateral flexion), and altered lumbar posture (maximum right lateral flexion) compared to controls.
• PwMS also demonstrated higher thoracic posture angles in upright and maximum extension positions.
• A negative correlation was found between thoracic spinal mobility (upright to extension) and trunk control in PwMS.

Conclusions:

• The findings highlight significant trunk control, mobility, and posture disturbances in PwMS.
• Early detection and comprehensive assessment of trunk impairments are recommended for PwMS.
• This assessment can inform the development of tailored exercise programs for rehabilitation.