The Reliability and Validity of the Functional Reach Test in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

The Reliability and Validity of the Functional Reach Test in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

Loss of limits of stability ability is one of the major components of balance dysfunction in MS. The functional reach test is quick and clinically available tool for assessing limits of stability but reliability and validity of this test has not yet been systematically examined in people with Multiple Sclerosis.The aim of the study is to investigate reliability and validity of the functional reach test in patients with Multiple Sclerosis.

At baseline, the functional reach test, limits of stability test by using Biodex Balance System, Berg Balance Scale, four step square test, and timed up and go test was applied to the patients with Multiple Sclerosis. The functional reach test was repeated after seven days from the first application to evaluate its reliability.

Inclusion Criteria:

• at least 18 years,
• neurologist-diagnosed Multiple Sclerosis,
• Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score < 7,
• able to walk 20 m with or without aids,
• no MS exacerbation within the last 2 months,
• use of stable medication in the last 2 months.

Exclusion Criteria:

• other neurologic disorder,
• pregnancy,
• orthopedic problems affecting gait and stance,
• visual, auditory, orientational problems that could affect study results,
• cardiovascular, pulmonary, and humoral disease.