The implementation of a reflex locomotion program according to Vojta produces short-term automatic postural control changes in patients with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

BackgroundImbalance is common in people with multiple sclerosis. ObjectiveTo examine the effectiveness of a Vojta locomotion reflex program as short-term automatic postural control in patients with Multiple sclerosis. MethodsQuasi-experimental controlled trial with a pretest-post-test design. Participants: People with Multiple Sclerosis (N = 21) able to walk 100 m but unable to maintain 30-s tandem stance with arms alongside the body. Interventionin two consecutive weeks two interventions were conducted: Vojta group(A) and standard therapy group(B). Primary outcome were: Berg Balance scale (BBS), Tandem test, 10 m Walk in the 1st session (pre and post) then at the end of the study 2 weeks later. ResultsIntervention A had significant results in contrast to intervention B in BBS when referred to equilibrium variables (p = 0.026) and Tandem test (p = 0.01). In the 10 m Walk test a significant improvement was seen in both interventions, p = 0.00 in group A, p = 0.038 in group B. In addition, an association was found between the variable Core activation and the main equilibrium variable (BBS) in the intervention A. ConclusionsThe results suggest that Vojta therapy has a short-term effect improved balance in everyday skills according to BBS and the other tests (walking) in people with MS compared to a standard therapeutic procedure. www.ClinicalTrial.gov. Registration numberNCT03887507.