Relationship between lower extremity muscle strength and dynamic balance in women with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Introduction: The balance and postural control impairments are current problems in people with multiple sclerosis, so much that the risk of fracture from falls in MS patients is 2 to 3 times higher than healthy subjects. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the correlation between lower extremity muscle strength and dynamic balance in women with Multiple Sclerosis.Materials and Methods: Thirty three female individuals with MS recruited in this study. Dynamic balance was assessed by the Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go Test, and Functional Reach Test. Also bilateral lower extremity muscle strength was measured by dynamometer and 30 seconds sit to stand test. Data was analyzed by SPSS, version 16.Results: There was a good correlation between lower extremity muscle strength and the FRT (P < 0.05). Also the TUG test had a correlation with flexors and extensors muscles of knee strength (P < 0.05) and 30 seconds sit to stand test (r = 0.60, P < 0.05).The correlation between BBS and extensors of knee muscle strength (Right: r = 0.47 and left: r = 0.46, P < 0.05) and flexor of knee muscle strength was significant (Right: r = 0.45, P < 0.05 and left: r = 0.37, P < 0.05). While the correlation between this balance scale and 30 seconds sit to stand test was prominently significant (r = 0.63, P < 0.05).Conclusion: Generally the results of this study indicated that the loss of lower extremity muscle strength can influence on dynamic balance in subjects with multiple sclerosis. These results are beneficial to assess modality of rehabilitation program for patients with MS. It is recommended that increasing lower extremity muscle strength must be considered particularly to improve balance and reduce falls risk in these patients.Keywords: Lower extremity muscle strength, Dynamic balance, Multiple sclerosis