ARZUCAN TOKSAL UCAR, GUNGOR BEYZA OZVAR SENOZ, MUSTAFA ACİKGOZ
Journal of Multiple Sclerosis Research - 2024;4(3):73-78
Objective: This study aimed to examine the relationship between disability level, hip adductor spasticity, incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, and quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). Materials and Methods: Nineteen participants (11 females, 8 males) were included. Disability levels were assessed using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Spasticity was evaluated with the modified ashworth scale (MAS). Incontinence and pelvic floor dysfunction were assessed using the pelvic floor distress inventory-20 and its subscales [colorectal-anal distress inventory-8 (CRADI-8), urogenital distress inventory-6 (UDI-6)]. The impact on quality of life was measured with the international consultation on incontinence questionnaire-short form (ICIQ-SF), while overall health status was assessed using the king’s health questionnaire (KHQ). Results: The mean EDSS score was 2.23±1.67. No significant differences were observed between male and female participants for MAS-right, MAS-left, CRADI-8, UDI-6, ICIQ-SF, or the total KHQ score (p>0.05). A significant positive correlation was identified between disability levels and hip adductor spasticity, incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, and quality of life (p<0.05). Conclusion: Routine evaluation of hip adductor spasticity, incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction, and quality of life is recommended for pwMS, regardless of disability level or gender.
