The Effectiveness of Guided Imagery on Walking and Balance Dysfunction in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract

Background: Multiple sclerosis can cause walking and balance disorders. These complications cause extensive disturbances in the quality of life, independence, and self-care and affect many aspects of their lives. The guided imagery method is a simple, easy, and safe intervention. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted to determine the effect of guided imagery on walking and balance dysfunction in patients with multiple sclerosis in 2023. Sixty-six patients were randomly divided into two intervention and control groups (n = 33). The intervention group listened to the audio file of nature-based guided imagery, and the control group did not receive any intervention. Data were collected by 6-min walk test, 25-ft walk test, and Berg balance scale before and after the intervention. Analysis of the average results of movement disorder and balance intra- and intergroup, before and after the study, was done with a paired t-test, independent t-test, and analysis of covariance. The significance level in all tests is 0.05, with a confidence level of 95%. Results: After performing guided imagery, in the intervention group, walking dysfunction significantly improved, with changes from 429.55 ± 42.78 to 459.24 ± 41.48 in the 6-min walk test, 7.12 ± 0.37 to 6.74 ± 0.44 in the 25-ft walk test, and the improvement of balance level with changes of 26.60 ± 3.13 to 31.72 ± 3.64 in the Berg balance test. Conclusion: Using guided imagery can improve walking dysfunction and balance in patients with multiple sclerosis. Trial Registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: IRCT20220614055170N1.