Elifnur MACIT KARAMAN, Meltem KAYA
Medical Records - 2026;8(1):1-9
Aim: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative disorder involving central nervous system inflammation and myelin damage, often leading to cognitive deficits, especially in information processing speed. This study aimed to examine the relationship between cognitive function and functional performance, fatigue, kinesiophobia, and physical activity level in individuals with MS. Material and Methods: A total of 40 individuals with MS and 40 healthy participants were recruited for the study. Cognitive performance was evaluated through the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and the Trail Making Test parts A and B (TMT A-B). Functional performance was assessed using the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), the 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test (30-sSTST), and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. Fatigue, kinesiophobia, and physical activity level were evaluated using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Tampa Kinesiophobia Scale (TSK), and International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF), respectively. Results: Significant differences were found between MS and control groups in cognitive scores (MoCA, TMT A-B), functional performance (6MWT, 30-s STST, TUG), fatigue, kinesiophobia, and physical activity levels (p<0.05). MoCA scores were positively correlated with walking distance, 30-s STST, and physical activity levels, and negatively correlated with fatigue. TMT A-B performance was also significantly correlated with functional tests. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that individuals with MS show significant impairments in cognitive function, physical activity level, fatigue, and functional performance compared to healthy controls. Cognitive dysfunction was moderately associated with reduced endurance, lower limb strength, higher fatigue, and lower physical activity levels. These findings underscore the multifactorial nature of cognitive impairment in MS and support the integration of cognitive evaluation into routine clinical assessments. Incorporating cognitive-focused strategies into rehabilitation may enhance functional outcomes and quality of life in this population.
