Pelvic Control Characteristics During Static Balance in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Novel Sensor-Based Study

TL;DR

This study uses sensors to assess balance in people with multiple sclerosis, finding significant differences in pelvic control compared to healthy individuals.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel sensor-based method combining baropodometric and accelerometer data to assess pelvic control in MS patients.

Findings

Significant differences were found in pelvic control between MS patients and healthy controls during balance assessments.

Simultaneous measurement of center of gravity displacement on the pelvis and feet revealed greater disturbances in MS patients.

Functional tests confirmed impaired balance and gait in the MS group compared to the control group.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system. MS lesions can affect the motor, sensory, and visual nerves, leading to impaired balance, muscle tension, and pain. The occurrence of the above can significantly affect quality of life. There is therefore a need to use objective methods of functional assessment for balance and gait disorders in patients with MS. The aim of the study was to assess the functional status and quality of life in people with multiple sclerosis with the simultaneous use of an accelerometer and baropodometric mat. Methodology: The research was conducted using functional tests: Tinetti test, Tandem Pivot Test, timed up and go test, and the Berg Balance Scale. In addition, the Sensor Medica baropodometric mat and the Baiobit balance and gait assessment system were used to objectively assess balance and gait. The assessment was performed once. The study involved 34 participants diagnosed with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis compared to a control group consisting of healthy individuals with similar demographic data to the study group. Results: Significant differences were found between the study and control groups in both functional and baropodometric assessments as well as when using an accelerometer in the pelvic area. Conclusions: Higher disturbances and differences are detected in the pelvic area; therefore, it is necessary to consider assessment using the simultaneous measurement of the displacement of the center of gravity located both on the pelvis and on the feet during the performance of different tasks—static and dynamic.