Nawal Abdelraouf Abou Shady, Ebtesam Fahmy, Nadia Mohamed Abd Elhakiem Hassanin3, Elbadawy Ibrahim Mohamed Elheneidi

Abstract

Background: The use of dual-task training paradigm to enhance postural stability in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) is an emerging area of interest. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of dual-task training on postural stability in patients with MS. Subjects and Methods: Thirty clinically definite MS patients were included in the study. They were divided into 2 equal groups; study and the control groups. The study group received primary task activities (postural control activities) in addition to secondary Task activities (cognitive training) while the control group received primary task activities only. Both groups were subjected to clinical assessment including expanded disability status scale (EDSS), Montreal cognitive assessment (MOCA), and evaluation of balance using the Biodex Balance System and Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Results: In the study group, a statistically significant difference was observed between pre- and post-treatment mean stability indices (antro-posterior, mediolateral and overall balance) measured by Biodex Balance System and mean scores of BBS (P=0.0001), while a non-significant difference was found in the control group. Post-treatment, the study group had lower mean stability indices (P=0.0001) and higher mean scores of BBS compared to the control group (P=0.001). Conclusion: Dual-task training has a positive impact on enhancing postural stability among MS patients.