J Mult Scler Res. 2024; 4(3): 73-78 | DOI: 10.4274/jmsr.galenos.2024.2024-12-5

What is the Relationship Between Disability Level, Hip Adductor Spasticity, and Incontinence in People with Multiple Sclerosis? - A Pilot Study

Arzucan Toksal Ucar¹, Gungor Beyza Ozvar Senoz², Mustafa Acikgoz^3
1Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Zonguldak, Turkey
²Yuksek Ihtisas University Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Ankara, Turkey
³Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, Clinic of Neurology, Zonguldak, Turkey

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to examine the relationship between disability level, hip adductor spasticity, incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, and quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS).
METHODS: Nineteen participants (11 females, 8 males) were included. Disability levels were assessed using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Spasticity was evaluated with the modified ashworth scale (MAS). Incontinence and pelvic floor dysfunction were assessed using the pelvic floor distress inventory-20 and its subscales [colorectal-anal distress inventory-8 (CRADI-8), urogenital distress inventory-6 (UDI-6)]. The impact on quality of life was measured with the international consultation on incontinence questionnaire-short form (ICIQ-SF), while overall health status was assessed using the king’s health questionnaire (KHQ).
RESULTS: The mean EDSS score was 2.23±1.67. No significant differences were observed between male and female participants for MAS-right, MAS-left, CRADI-8, UDI-6, ICIQ-SF, or the total KHQ score (p>0.05). A significant positive correlation was identified between disability levels and hip adductor spasticity, incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, and quality of life (p<0.05).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Routine evaluation of hip adductor spasticity, incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, and quality of life is recommended for pwMS, regardless of disability level or gender.

Keywords: Multiple sclerosis, hip adductor spasticity, incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, quality of life

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