Comparing routine neurorehabilitation program with trunk exercises based on Bobath concept in multiple sclerosis: Pilot study

Abstract

Abstract-This study compared trunk exercises based on the Bobath concept with routine neurorehabilitation approaches in multiple sclerosis (MS). Bobath and routine neurorehabilitation exercises groups were evaluated. MS cases were divided into two groups. Both groups joined a 3 d/wk rehabilitation program for 8 wk. The experimental group performed trunk exercises based on the Bobath concept, and the control group performed routine neurorehabilitation exercises. Additionally, both groups performed balance and coordination exercises. All patients were evaluated with the Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale (ICARS), and Multiple Sclerosis Functional Composite (MSFC) before and after the physiotherapy program. In group analysis, TIS, BBS, ICARS, and MSFC scores and strength of abdominal muscles were significantly different after treatment in both groups (p < 0.05). When the groups were compared, no significant differences were found in any parameters (p > 0.05). Although trunk exercises based on the Bobath concept are rarely applied in MS rehabilitation, the results of this study show that they are as effective as routine neurorehabilitation exercises. Therefore, trunk exercises based on the Bobath concept can be beneficial in MS rehabilitation programs.

Core muscle characteristics during walking of patients with multiple sclerosis

“…As such, core strengthening in various forms has been the subject of intervention [16][17][18][39][40]. Although these studies generally have limitations in design and have used different approaches and outcomes, together they show an overall positive effect on gait and mobility outcomes.…”

“…Despite the general lack of understanding of the importance of the core musculature to walking, core muscles have been targeted for intervention to improve gait and postural instability in patients with MS [16][17][18]. A further understanding of core muscle activity during walking is needed.…”

Effect of Comorbidities on Outcomes of Neurorehabilitation Interventions in Multiple Sclerosis

“…Four of seven studies (57%) had active comparison groups, [19][20][21][22] and the remaining three had usual care 23,24 or no intervention control groups. 25 The number of intervention sessions ranged from 10 25 to 24 24 over 2 25 to 8 24 weeks.…”

“…25 The number of intervention sessions ranged from 10 25 to 24 24 over 2 25 to 8 24 weeks. The duration of each session ranged from 30 21 to 120 25 minutes.…”

“…20,21,24,25 The most commonly excluded comorbidities were cognitive impairment (n = 4, 57%) 20,21,24,25 and psychiatric disorders (n = 3, 43%) 20,21,24 (Figure 3). These psychiatric disorders were not identified.…”