Article

PURPOSE: To examine the association between bladder function and falls while
controlling for mobility in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). METHODS: A total of 92 ambulatory individuals with MS (mean age +/- SD = 59.1 +/- 7.3 years,
female n = 69) were divided into two groups based on self-reported bladder
function (none-mild n = 43 versus moderate-severe n = 49). The main outcome
measure was a number of self-reported falls in the previous 3 months.
Participants' demographic information (age, type of MS, gender, use of the
assistive device) was also collected. The balance was quantified with the Berg
balance scale, and walking speed was indexed with the timed 25-foot walk test.
Negative binomial regression analysis was used to examine the association between
bladder function and falls in individuals with MS while controlling for balance
and walking. RESULTS: The median number of self-reported falls in the previous 3
months was 2 (interquartile range, 0-4). The severe bladder dysfunction group was
more likely (incidence rate ratio = 1.84) to have a greater number of
self-reported falls compared to mild bladder dysfunction group when balance and
walking were taken into account. CONCLUSION: Bladder dysfunction is related to
falls history independently of mobility in individuals with MS. Future research
examining whether bladder management programmes have an impact on fall incidence
in MS is warranted. Implications for rehabilitation Bladder dysfunction and falls
are common health concerns in individuals with multiple sclerosis. Bladder
dysfunction was associated with the number of falls in individuals with MS, and
this association was independent of mobility. Bladder management should be
included in fall prevention strategies in individuals with MS.

Langue : ANGLAIS