SX02
Evaluation of a Spasticity Management Program for People with Multiple Sclerosis: Study Protocol
Spasticity affects over 80% of people with MS, impacting activity, participation and quality of life. We developed the STC program, including DVDs with education and lower extremity stretching, based on an international guideline. Our pilot trial of STC (n=38) showed promising effects on the MS Spasticity Scale-88 and other self-reported and physical performance measures.
Objectives:
To determine whether group delivery of MS Spasticity: Take Control (STC) is associated with greater changes in self-reported impact of spasticity than a comparable control intervention in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Methods:
220 ambulatory MS subjects with self-reported spasticity interfering with daily activities will be randomized to STC or control using a brochure. Subjects will complete the MS Spasticity Scale-88, MS Walking Scale-12 and other self-report questionnaires and physical performance measures including the Timed Up and Go and the Timed 25 Foot Walk at baseline and after 1 and 6 months of home exercise.
Results:
Results available at the time of the meeting will be presented.
Conclusions:
Participation in a small group MS spasticity program improved subjective spasticity more than usual care in our pilot trial. STC provided encouraging improvement on self-report and functional walking measures compared to usual care suggesting benefit of a comprehensive spasticity program to help manage MS-related lower extremity spasticity. Results of this pilot study need replicating in a fully powered trial.