Investigation of the Relationship Between Trunk Motor Control and Balance, Functional Mobility, and Gait Capacity in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Objective: The functions of the trunk are critical for balance, functional mobility, and gait capacity. Trunk impairment, balance, functional mobility, and gait capacity are affected in patients with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). This study examines the relationship between trunk motor control and balance, functional mobility, and gait capacity in PwMS with mild to moderate disability. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in 54 PwMS with an age range of 18-65 years. The disability level was determined by the expanded disability status scale. Trunk motor control was assessed using the trunk impairment scale (TIS). Balance was measured with the Mini-BESTest and single-leg stance test. Functional mobility was measured with the timed up and go test (TUG). Gait capacity was measured with the two-minute walk test. Results: The total points of the TIS were correlated with the Mini-BESTest, single-leg stance test (dominant and non-dominant), TUG, and two-minute walk test in PwMS (r=0.652/p<0.001, r=0.389 p=0.004, r=0.458 p<0.001, r=-0.534 p<0.001, r=0.471 p<0.001, respectively). Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that trunk motor control was related to balance and functional mobility and gait capacity in PwMS with mild to moderate disability. These results suggest that a more detailed assessment of the trunk is essential to plan an effective rehabilitation program for the protection and development of balance, functional mobility, and gait capacity in PwMS with mild to moderate disability.