Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Physical Therapy for Neuromuscular and Neurodisorder

Background: Multiple Sclerosis is one the leading causes of functional disability and gait problems. Objective: The aim of this study is to compare the effect of functional electrical stimulation combined with treadmill training versus treadmill training alone on certain gait Parameters in paraparetic patients due to Multiple sclerosis. Subjects and Methods: Thirty patients of both sexes participated in this study. The patients were assigned randomly into two equal groups, (study and control). Patients in the study group received functional electrical stimulation with treadmill training in addition to selected physical therapy program. Patients in the control group received treadmill training and the same physical therapy program .Biodex gait trainer 2 TM was used to assess selected gait kinematics (step length, walking speed) before and after six weeks training period (end of treatment) for both groups. Results: There was a significant increase in walking speed and step length bilaterally in both groups post treatment. The improvement in gait kinematics was significantly higher in the study group compared to the control group. Conclusion: Functional electrical stimulation with treadmill training is effective in improving gait in paraparesis due to Multiple sclerosis when added to the selected physical therapy program

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