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

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common, complex neurological disease. Balance disorders (BDs) and ataxic symptoms are frequent and challenging symptoms in MS, leading to abnormal postural stability, with adverse effect on patient{u2019}s independence, participation and quality of life. Purpose of the Study: To investigate the effect of physical therapy interventions on static and dynamic balance in ataxic MS patients. Methods: Forty five remitting and relapse MS patients from both sexes with ataxic symptoms and EDSS score ranged from "2" to "4.5", represented the sample of the study. They were randomly assigned into three groups, control group (CG), study group I (GI) and study group II (GII). The patients in CG treated with conventional program of therapeutic exercise for balance disorders. The patients in study GI treated with the same physical therapy program as in CG in addition to core stability exercises. Study GII treated with the same physical therapy program as in CG in addition to task oriented training approach. The treatment was conducted two sessions per week for six weeks. Pre and post assessment of all variables of balance were done for each patient. Biodex stability system, Berg balance scale and functional reach test (FRT) were used to measure static and dynamic balance

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