Is there a relationship between functional mobility, balance, manual dexterity and perceived dual-task performance in...

The effects of motor and cognitive impairments on mobility and balance in patients with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) are well established; however, little is known about the relationships between self-reported dual-task performance, mobility, balance, and manual dexterity in minimally disabled PwMS. While objective assessments offer valuable insights, self-reported measures provide a broader perspective on perceived abilities in real life. This study aimed to investigate the relationships between self-reported dual-task performance, mobility, balance, and dexterity in minimally disabled PwMS and compare these outcomes with a healthy control group to assess early motor and cognitive impacts. This cross-sectional study, included 54 PwMS and 30 healthy controls. Self-reported dual-task performance was assessed using the Dual Task Questionnaire (DTQ), functional mobility with the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), dynamic balance with the modified Four Square Step Test (mFSST), and manual dexterity with the Nine-Hole Peg Test (NHPT). DTQ scores were similar between groups (p > 0.05), but mFSST, TUG, and NHPT performances differed significantly (p < 0.05). Weak correlations were found between DTQ scores and non-dominant hand NHPT (r = 0.28, p = 0.035) and between mFSST and dominant hand NHPT (r = 0.27, p = 0.046). Moderate correlations were observed between mFSST and TUG (r = 0.59, p = 0.000), mFSST and non-dominant hand NHPT (r = 0.36, p = 0.006), and TUG with NHPT for both hands (dominant: r = 0.47, p = 0.000; non-dominant: r = 0.35, p = 0.008). Even with minimal disability, PwMS may exhibit reduced functional mobility, balance, and manual dexterity, though self-reported dual-task performance remains unaffected, possibly due to compensatory strategies. Early rehabilitation targeting these domains is crucial to maintain daily functioning.