Effect of CoDuSe and step square exercises on risk of fall inmultiple sclerosis: a randomized controlled trial

Objective: Impaired balance and the difficulty to execute dual tasks are common in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), which are the main causes of risk of fall. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of a rehabilitation program composed of CoDuSe balance training and step square exercises (SSE) on the risk of fall in MS. Methods: Fifty-two patients with MS were randomly divided into two equal groups; the study group that received CoDuSe balance training and SSE combined with the selected exercise program for four weeks, while the control group received only the selected exercise program. All patients were assessed pre-and post-rehabilitation program with the Biodex Balance System (BBS) using the fall risk index test, Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), and Morse Fall Scale (MFS). Results: Comparing groups post-treatment revealed significant reductions in MFS and risk of falls scores (p < 0.05) and a significant increase in balance, gait, lower limb strength, and total scores of SPPB of the study group compared with the control group. Conclusions: The combination of CoDuSe balance training and SSE had a significant effect in reducing the risk of fall and improving balance in patients with MS, thus this treatment program should be considered in MS physical rehabilitation.