Project R-11910

Walking-related fatigability in persons with MS: Psychometric properties of cognitive and coordination fatigability assessment & proof-of-concept of a rehabilitation intervention. (Research)

No interventional research has included exclusively people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) with walking-related fatigability. It is unknown if the slowing down during walking can be reversed by multi-model rehabilitation and exercise interventions. The first part of this research aims to examine the psychometric properties (discriminative validity, reliability) of a new measurement method of interlimb coordination using a bipedal coordination task, and of cognitive fatigability. Secondly, we will explore the relationship between coordination and cognitive fatigability. This part will lead to psychometric values useful for clinical practice and research, and offer insights useful for rehabilitation and further mechanistic (neurophysiological) research. The second part of this research aims to investigate the effect of an eight-week choreo-based dance intervention on fatigability, fatigue and dual tasking in MS by conducting a pilot randomized controlled trial. Twenty-four people with MS will be allocated either into a dance group or a balance & stretching motor training group. The results of the intervention will assist in understanding the relations between different factors underlying the manifestation of walking related fatigability, and provide recommendations for clinical practice.

16 April 2021 - 13 December 2021