What is this study trying to find out about Multiple Sclerosis?

This study aims to explore how balance and walking abilities relate to detailed movement measurements in people with Multiple Sclerosis. Researchers want to understand which biomechanical factors are most connected to functional performance. The University of Patras is leading this research to help improve assessment and rehabilitation for MS patients.

Who may be eligible for this Multiple Sclerosis clinical trial?

Adults aged 18 or older with a confirmed diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis may be eligible. Participants need an Expanded Disability Status Scale score below 6 and must be able to walk independently without assistive devices. Those with recent lower limb or spine injuries or other major health conditions affecting mobility are excluded. Please review eligibility criteria for more details.

Is there any cost to participate in this Multiple Sclerosis clinical trial?

Study-related care, including all assessments during the trial, is provided at no cost. Personal travel expenses to attend the laboratory session may vary and are not guaranteed to be covered. Participants should plan accordingly for any travel costs.

Actively Recruiting

Age: 18Years +

All Genders

ID07630311

Functional Assessment of Balance and Gait and Correlation With Kinetic and Kinematic Parameters in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis Cross-Sectional Study

Led by University of Patras · Updated on 2026-06-05

Participants Needed

Research Sites

26 weeks

Total Duration

AI-Summary

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the relationship between functional measures of balance and gait and objective kinetic and kinematic parameters in people with Multiple Sclerosis MS. This cross-sectional observational study aims to understand how biomechanical gait and balance data collected through the Vicon motion analysis system relate to clinical assessments of balance, gait, and physical performance. The study seeks to identify which biomechanical factors are most closely linked to functional abilities and mobility challenges in MS. Participants will attend a single laboratory session where they will undergo biomechanical analysis of balance and gait using the Vicon motion capture system. They will also complete standardized functional tests including the Mini Balance Evaluation Systems Test, Functional Gait Assessment, Short Physical Performance Battery, and a 2-Minute Walk Test. Additionally, they will fill out questionnaires assessing fear of falling and fatigue and have their lower-limb spasticity evaluated with the modified Ashworth Scale. During the session, which takes about 40 minutes for the primary kinetic and kinematic analysis and additional time for functional assessments, researchers will collect detailed movement data alongside clinical measures. This data will be analyzed to explore correlations between biomechanical parameters and functional outcomes. The study includes assessments of postural control, gait performance, physical endurance, fatigue, and spasticity. The findings aim to improve understanding of movement impairments in MS and support better clinical assessments and rehabilitation approaches.

CONDITIONS

Brief Title

"Balance, Gait, and Motion Analysis in Multiple Sclerosis"

Who Can Participate

Age: 18Years +

All Genders

Eligibility Criteria

You may qualify if you...

Adults (≥ 18 years) with confirmed diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis
Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score less than 6
Ability to walk independently without assistive devices
No significant orthopedic or neurological conditions affecting mobility
Ability to understand and follow verbal instructions

You will not qualify if you...

History of injury or surgery to lower limbs or spine within the past year
Any other musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiovascular, or medical condition besides Multiple Sclerosis that affects gait, balance, or safety during testing
Severe balance impairment or high fall risk preventing safe participation in study tasks

Research Team

Eirini Papakosta, PT, MSc cand.

Sofia Lampropoulou, PT, MSc, PhD

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