Functional Balance Tests for Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Review Study

Abstract

Background: Knowledge of the functional balance tests for the patients with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS) may provide useful and accurate information about the balance function of these patients under different situations. Objectives: This study aims to review the functional balance tests for PwMS. Materials and Methods: This is a systematic review. The search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, LILACS, CINAHL, CENTRAL, Web of Science, PEDro, and Google Scholar databases on relevant studies published until November 2021. Results: Twenty-five articles and 25 different tests were found to evaluate the functional balance of PwMS. It was found that the studies used 6 tests to assess the static balance, 13 tests to assess dynamic balance, and 6 multi-item tests to assess functional balance in PwMS. Single-leg stance test, balance error scoring system test and steady stance test is a test battery for static balance; six-spot step test, timed up and go test, and figure-of-8 hop test are better for dynamic balance, and the balance evaluation systems test is a better multiitem test to assess the balance of PwMS by examining the postural control components. Conclusion: Single-limb standing test, balance error scoring system (BESS) test and steady stance test provide accurate data on static balance; six spot step test, Timed Get up and go test and figure-of-8 hop test provide valuable data on the dynamic balance and Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) is a valid test to assess the balance of PwMS from the perspective of the review of posture control components.