Effect Of Automated Plantar Foot Stimulation On Gait Performance In Patient With Multiple Sclerosis: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study

Abstract

Background: Loss of proprioceptive sensation in the sole of the foot impairs balance and walking in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Plantar foot stimulation enhances feeling of body location, and may improve posture, lower risk of falling, and subsequently enhance quality of life.

Objectives: To investigate the therapeutic efficacy for automated plantar foot stimulation (APFS) in its forms as static stimulation device or dynamic as vibrating insoles on gait performance in PwMS compared to control group.

Methods: Forty- five remitting relapsing MS patients (RRMS) from both genders were recruited to this study. They were aged from 25 to 45 years. The Patients were randomized into three equivalent groups; study group (A) treated by static automated plantar foot stimulation device and therapeutic exercises program and study group (B) received vibrating insole (VI) and therapeutic exercises program and control group treated by therapeutic exercise program. Treatment was conducted for three groups 3 sessions/ week for 12 weeks. Patients were assessed pre and post sessions for gait parameters which were step length (SL), step time (ST), angle of dorsiflexion (AOD) using 2D gait analysis.

Results: Post treatment, results showed significant increase in scores of SLS, AOD and a significant decline in scores of ST in all groups with more significant improvement in favor to study groups (P<0.05).

Conclusion: Adding automated plantar foot stimulation in its static and dynamic forms to therapeutic exercise program improves gait performance in people with multiple sclerosis.