Evaluation of a Web-Based Fall Prevention Program on People With Multiple Sclerosis

Evaluation of a Web-Based Fall Prevention Program on People With Multiple Sclerosis

This study evaluates the effectiveness of a web-based fall prevention program called Free From Falls Online (FFFO) on people with multiple sclerosis.

The overarching goal of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of an online self-management program for preventing falls among people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). To accomplish this objective, the investigators have designed a web-based fall prevention program called Free From Falls Online (FFFO), based on the traditionally in-person program developed by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The specific aims of this study are three-fold: (1) to evaluate the effectiveness of an online fall prevention self-education program by comparing fall frequency between participants and controls; (2) evaluate the impact of FFFO by comparing patient reported measures of physical function, fatigue, self-efficacy, psychosocial illness impact, social participation and satisfaction, and perception of global health between participants and controls; (3) and to determine usability of and satisfaction with FFFO.

Inclusion Criteria:

• MS of any type with no relapse in the previous month
• Self-reported history of 2 or more falls in the previous 2 months
• Ability to walk at least 100 meters with intermittent or unilateral constant assistance (Expanded Disability Severity Scale (EDSS) step <6.0)
• Daily access a computer and willingness to respond to a daily survey

Exclusion Criteria:

• Medical conditions that would preclude reliable participation or increases risk for injury during the program