Efficacy of ultraviolet B radiation versus vitamin D3 on postural control and cognitive functions in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: A randomized controlled study

The relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) is the most common type of MS with prevalence rate 20–60 patients/100.000 individuals in Egypt. Poor postural control and cognitive dysfunctions are well-established complications of RRMS without potent remedy yet. The latest evidence highlighted the potential and independent immune-modulating effects of vitamin D3 and ultraviolet radiation in the management of RRMS. To investigate the efficacy of broadband ultraviolet B radiation (UVBR) versus moderate loading dose of vitamin D3 supplementation in improving postural control and cognitive functions. Pretest-posttest randomized controlled study. Multiple sclerosis outpatient unit of Kasr Al-Ainy Hospital. Forty-seven patients with RRMS were recruited from both genders, yet only 40 completed the study. Patients were randomized into two groups: UVBR group involved 24 patients, received sessions for 4 weeks and vitamin D3 group involved 23 patients, took vitamin D3 supplementation (50 000 IU/week) for 12 weeks. Overall balance system index (OSI) and symbol digit modalities test (SDMT). Highly significant decrease (P