Postural Control and Psychosocial Measures Associations in Multiple Sclerosis

Investigating Predictive Associations Among Postural Balance, Functional Mobility, Cognitive Function and Psychological Well-being in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Balance deficits, gait abnormalities, impaired cognitive function, psychological disturbances and disconnection from community are key characteristics of multiple sclerosis (MS). Thus, exploring the interrelationships and the primary risk factors related to clinical manifestations and consequences of MS is of definite clinical significance. The primary aims of the study are to evaluate the association interplay among balance, functional mobility, cognitive function, psychological well-being, and community participation in addition to identify the anticipated contributing factors that function as predictors of MS features.

This cross-sectional study will be carried out on sixty-four patients with MS. Balance performance was evaluated by a standardized Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Functional mobility will be measured via the well validated Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. Patients᾽ cognitive functions will be assessed by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), which is a sensitive screening test for the diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment. The psychological well-being will be measured based on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), which is widely employed to evaluate mood disturbances in clinical settings. Furthermore, community participation and engagement constraints will be measured with the Community Integration Questionnaire (CIQ) as they clearly capture the extent of functional and social integration into the community.

Inclusion Criteria:

Participants will be screened for inclusion criteria to guarantee sample homogeneity and clinical applicability. First, all subjects will be diagnosed with MS confirmed by a neurologist according to the revised McDonald criteria. These criteria have the highest sensitivity and specificity and therefore are considered the gold standard in MS diagnosis. Second, participants will be be aged at least 18 years, so as to be able, cognitively and legally, to engage in the study as an informed study volunteer. Third, relapse- and relapse related treatments should be stopped by at least 1 month before the assessment. This is crucial in order to maximize the control of the transient influence of aggravation of the symptoms on patients᾽ cognitive and motor performance. Fourth, individuals will be eligible to participate in the study if they can ambulate, either independently or with the use of assistive device, as the study includes physical performance measures such as balance and gait. Finally, the maximum EDSS-value will be below 6 (moderate disability) to ensure independence of gait without constant support, as this is necessary to ensure comparability of balance and cognitive function.

Exclusion Criteria:

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