Somatosensory Impairments in People with Multiple Sclerosis and Association with Balance Dysfunction

Background: Somatosensory impairment is common in multiple sclerosis. However, little objective data are available to characterize the nature and frequency of these problems in people with multiple sclerosis. To investigate the frequency of somatosensory impairments and identify associations with balance abilities in people with multiple sclerosis.Methods: Cross-sectional study of 82 people with multiple sclerosis and 30 healthy controls. Tactile and proprioceptive sensory appreciation was measured using the Rivermead Assessment of Somatosensory Performance. Vibration duration was assessed using a tuning fork. Duration of Timed Up and Go and leaning distance of Forward Reach Test were measured.Results: Proprioceptive impairment (66.7%) was more common than tactile (60.8%) and vibration impairments (44.9%). Somatosensory impairments were more frequent in the lower limb (78.2%) than the upper limb (64.1%). All sensory modalities were significantly associated with Timed Up and Go and Forward Reach test (p<0.05).Conclusion: Somatosensory impairment is very common in people with multiple sclerosis. The somatosensory impairments are associated with poor balance ability during functional activities

Keywords:

Multiple sclerosis , somatosensory , balance , impairment