Article

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) frequently experience poor gait and/or
cognitive impairment, even in the early stages of the disease.
As gait is often
executed simultaneously with different cognitive tasks, it is essential to test
gait during a cognitive load. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to
assess gait and gait variations while simultaneously performing a cognitive task
in patients with a clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) suggestive of MS. Fifty-two
CIS patients, aged 33.8+/-0.2 years with an Expanded Disability Status Scale
(EDSS) score of 1.7+/-0.2 were included in the study. The control group consisted
of 28 age- and gender-matched healthy subjects. Major spatio-temporal parameters
were collected via an electronic walkway (GAITRite electronic walkway system).
Participants were instructed to walk under three different conditions: normal,
fast, and at a normal pace while performing the modified word list generation
(WLG) test. Compared to healthy subjects, the CIS patients' gait was slower and
asymmetrical with a wider base of support. The combined walking and cognitive
task was expressed in prolonged double support (% gait cycle) and reduced
velocity in patients only. As these findings are associated with the very early
phase of MS, it appears that the ongoing pathological disease process is already
taking place with regard to gait abilities. Since in early MS patients,
gait-cognitive dual tasking may lead to an increased risk of falling, this
important function should be addressed by physical rehabilitation clinicians.
CI - Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS