Abstract

Aim. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of physiotherapy on the sensation of pain, the severity of fatigue and the functional status in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Material and methods. Thirty-two people, of both sexes, aged 29 to 77 years (57.5 ± 14.0), members of the Polish Multiple Sclerosis Society in Łódź, participating in a 4-week rehabilitation stay were qualified for the study.

The study used an original questionnaire and the following tests and scales: Time Up and Go (TUG), Hand Grip Strength (HGS), Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and Barthel. The study assessed the effects of physiotherapy by comparing the results before and after the interventions, within one study group.

Results. The treatments reduced pain (p < 0.001) and improved TUG (p = 0.002) and FSS (p < 0.001). Older patients had lower scores in HGS (rho = -0.67, p < 0.001) and TUG (rho = 0.54, p < 0.01). Longer disease duration translated into lower scores in HGS (rho = −0.61, p < 0.001), TUG (rho = 0.42, p < 0.01), and Barthel (rho = −0.39, p < 0.01).

Conclusions. Physiotherapy reduced the severity of fatigue and pain and improved functional status, but did not increase HGS. Patients’ functional status was influenced by age, disease duration, pain intensity, and the number of comorbidities.

Key words

multiple sclerosis, pain, fatigue, functional status