Article

Muscle strength and standing balance decrease in patients with
Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The aim of the present study was to
investigate the relationship between the lower extremity isometric muscle
strength and standing balance in patients with MS. METHODS: Forty-seven patients
with MS and 10 healthy volunteers were included. Neurological disability level
was assessed using Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Isometric strength of
seven lower extremity muscles (hip flexor-extensor-abductor-adductor, knee
flexor-extensor, and ankle dorsal flexor) was assessed using hand-held
dynamometer. Duration of static one-leg standing balance was measured using
digital chronometer. RESULTS: Hip flexor-extensor-abductor-adductor, knee
flexor-extensor, and ankle dorsal flexor isometric muscle strength, and duration
of one-leg standing balance were decreased in patients with MS when compared with
controls (p < 0.05). All assessed lower extremity isometric muscle strength and
EDSS level was related duration of one-leg standing balance in patients with MS.
All assessed lower extremity isometric muscle strength (except ankle dorsal
flexor) was related with EDSS. CONCLUSIONS: Hip
flexor-extensor-abductor-adductor, knee flexor-extensor, and ankle dorsal flexor
isometric muscle strength decreases in ambulatory MS patients. Lower extremity
muscle weakness and neurological disability level are related with imbalance in
MS population. Hip and knee region muscles weakness increases the neurological
disability level. For the better balance and decrease neurological disability
level whole lower extremity muscle strengthening should be included in
rehabilitation programs.

Langue : ANGLAIS