The MS Neuromotor Test: A Nonambulatory Measure of Sensorimotor Function to Identify and Track Progressive MS
Abstract
The purpose is to develop and evaluate an outcome measure that can identify progression of disability in people with MS by being responsive to changes in sensorimotor function that precede an increased rate of disability. Specific Aim 1 investigates sensorimotor function (plantar cutaneous sensation, lower limb proprioception, and central motor drive), posture and mobility to assess what measures of somatosensory and motor function best discriminate between individuals with progressive MS(PMS) and nonprogressive relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), and compare these to an age- and sex-matched healthy control group. In Specific Aim 2 we assess changes in sensorimotor function over a 2-year period in the same three cohorts and determine what measures (or combination thereof) are most sensitive in detecting changes in a progressive disease course. All three sensorimotor function measures (cutaneous sensitivity, tapping ability, proprioception) were reduced in both MS cohorts compared to controls. Cutaneous sensitivity was reduced for both hands and feet in PMS compared to RRMS; tapping ability was reduced for the foot but not the hand in PMS compared to RRMS. Proprioceptive function in the arm declined from non-MS controls to RRMS to PMS. The main result for Aim 2 is that changes over a 2-year time span were observed in the PMS but not in the RRMS group, with the PMS group showing decline in both hand and foot cutaneous sensitivity.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1134722
Entities
Organizations
- University of Massachusetts