Abstract
The assessment of the functional performance status of persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) is a useful tool to optimize healthcare. This concept does not seem to be extensively explored in this population. This study aimed to determine the level of activity of PwMS during weekdays and weekends, and to establish associations between clinical parameters. Forty-one PwMS and 16 healthy persons participated in this study. Their physical activity in real-life conditions was assessed with an accelerometer. For the clinical evaluations, the quality of life, fatigue, gait, and balance were assessed. The level of activity between PwMS for weekdays, weekends, Saturdays, and Sundays was significantly reduced compared with the reference group (p = 0.001–0.00001, d = 0.95–1.76). PwMS had a constant level of activity throughout the week, whereas the reference group increased its level of activity on Saturdays (p = 0.04, d = 0.69). The level of activity was correlated in descending order with multiple sclerosis disability, body mass index, gait velocity, six-minute walk test, and timed up and go test. This study showed that PwMS had a stable level of activity throughout the week, contrary to healthy persons. It could be necessary to develop programs to facilitate physical activity and participation during the weekdays, but especially during weekends.
Highlights
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and neurodegenerative disease most often affecting young and middle-aged adults with a female predominance
No significant difference was found between persons with MS (PwMS) and Ref groups in terms of age, gender, height, body mass, body mass index (BMI), and employment
PwMS were significantly different for all functional capacity evaluations (i.e., Gait velocity, 6MWT, TUG), as well as for the perception of their fatigue
Summary
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and neurodegenerative disease most often affecting young and middle-aged adults with a female predominance (ratio 2:1). The cause of MS is unknown, it involves genetic susceptibility and environmental exposure. The symptoms of MS are variable, but typically include sensory, cognitive, and motor impairments [1]. The latter has been reported by persons with MS (PwMS) as one of the most impactful on their lives [2]. A recent survey (n = 1011) found that 41% of PwMS had walking difficulties and, for 70% of them, walking disorders seem to be the most impacting factor generated by MS [3]
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