Effect of Task Oriented Approach on Balance in Ataxic Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Abstract

Abstract Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a common, com-plex neurological disease. Balance Disorders (BDs) and ataxic symptoms are the most frequent and challenging symptoms in MS, lead to abnormal postural stability which have adversely effect on patients independence, participation and quality of life. Aim of Study: To investigate the effect of task oriented training exercises on balance in ataxic MS patients. Subjects and Methods: Thirty patients from both sexes diagnosed with remitting and Relapse Multiple Sclerosis (R.RMS) with ataxic symptoms and EDSS score ranged from 2 to 4.5, were recruited from multiple sclerosis specialized clinic in the Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University and were randomly assigned into two equal groups. Results: In control group there is significant improvement in Stability Index (SI), Anterior Posterior Stability Index (APSI) and non-significant improvement of Mediolateral Stability Index (MLSI), and berg balance scale. In the study group there is a significant improvement in all balance meas-ures between pre and post treatment assessment. Study group results were highly significant than the control group (p<0.05) in all study measures. Conclusion: Task oriented training approach in addition to conventional balance rehabilitation is effective for improving balance in ataxic MS patients. Therefore, task-oriented training may be considered as an essential part of the physical therapy program for balance rehabilitation in MS patients.