E ISSN 2791-7851
Volume : Issue : Year : 2023
The Modal
Journal of Multiple Sclerosis Research
Investigating the Relationship Between Balance and Upper Extremity Function in People with Multiple Sclerosis [J Mult Scler Res]
J Mult Scler Res. 2021; 1(3): 79-83 | DOI: 10.4274/jmsr.galenos.2022.2022-1-1

Investigating the Relationship Between Balance and Upper Extremity Function in People with Multiple Sclerosis

Seda Dastan1, Nurbanu Aygunduz Yapici2, Asiye Tuba Ozdogar1
1Dokuz Eylul University, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Izmir, Turkey
2Dokuz Eylul University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Izmir, Turkey

INTRODUCTION: Upper extremity dysfunction and balance problem are two important symptoms that are common in individuals with multiple sclerosis and reduce their quality of life. However, there is limited evidence of a direct relationship between these two symptoms. Therefore, this study aims to reveal the relationship between balance and upper extremity function, which is essential for pwMS.
METHODS: Nine hundred and sixty-six patients were included [681 (70.5%) female, 285 (29.5%) male]. The Nine-Hole Peg Test (9HPT) was applied to evaluate upper extremity function. With the Activity-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale patients evaluated their confidence in their balance during activities and balance was tested with the The Timed Up and Go (TUG) test.
RESULTS: There was a significant moderate positive correlation between the 9HPT and TUG (rho=0.566) and a moderate negative correlation with ABC score (rho=-0.464) in total participants. However, while there was a significant moderate negative correlation between 9HPT and ABC score in relapsing form, there was no relationship between 9HPT and TUG in pwMS with progressive form.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: There is a significant relationship between upper extremity function and balance. In addition, the trunk, upper and lower extremities should be considered as a whole, since distal stabilization cannot be achieved without poximal stabilization. Consideration should be given to the upper extremity within the scope of balance assessments.

Keywords: Balance, multiple sclerosis, upper extremity

Seda Dastan, Nurbanu Aygunduz Yapici, Asiye Tuba Ozdogar. Investigating the Relationship Between Balance and Upper Extremity Function in People with Multiple Sclerosis. J Mult Scler Res. 2021; 1(3): 79-83

Corresponding Author: Seda Dastan, Türkiye
Manuscript Language: English
LookUs & Online Makale