Randomized Clinical Trial of Balance-Based Torso Weighting for Improving Upright Mobility in People with Multiple Sclerosis
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Medical Update Memo
June 15, 2009
SUMMARY
Balance problems can affect people with MS. In previous studies and in clinical practice it has been shown that the mobility and postural control in people with MS with balance problems could be improved by placing small amounts of weight on the torso. In this study the authors found beneficial effects of the treatment and suggest that this would be a useful tool to improve balance problems in people with MS. Neurorehabil Neural Repair. 2009 May 26. [Epub ahead of print]
DETAILS
Torso weighting has sometimes been effective for improving upright mobility in people with multiple sclerosis, but parameters for weighting have been inconsistent. To determine whether balance-based torso weighting (BBTW) has immediate effects on upright mobility in people with multiple sclerosis, researchers conducted a 2-phase randomized clinical trial. In phase 1, 36 participants were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. In phase 2, the control group was subsequently randomized into 2 groups with alternate weight-placement.
A variety of tests to quantify balance included timed up and goes (TUG), and the 25-foot timed walk, as well as computerized platform posturography. Participants were tested at baseline and again with weights placed according to group membership. In both phases, a physical therapist assessed balance for the BBTW group and then placed weights to decrease balance loss. In phase 1, the control group had no weights placed. In phase 2, the alternate treatment group received standard weight placement of 1.5% body weight.
People with BBTW showed a significant improvement in the 25-foot walk (P = .01) over those with no weight, and the TUG (P = .01) over those with standard weight placement. BBTW participants received an average of 0.5 kg, less than 1.5% of any participant's body weight.
Balance-based torso weighting can have immediate advantages over a non-weighted condition for gait velocity and over a standardized weighted condition for a functional activity in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) who are ambulatory but have balance and mobility abnormalities.
National Research and Programs
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Disclaimer
The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada is an independent, voluntary health
agency and does not approve, endorse or recommend any specific product or therapy,
but provides information to assist individuals in making their own decisions.
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