The effect of eight weeks of Otago training on static and dynamic balance in female patients with Multiple sclerosis

Introduction
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and progressive disease of the nervous system that leads to impairment of balance (static and dynamic) and coordination, and as a result, causes nerve damage and disturbances in motor function, abnormal movement patterns, and impaired balance. studies recent in sports sciences have emphasized the effectiveness of functional exercise interventions in improving disorders associated with MS. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of Otago exercises on static and dynamic balance in women with MS.
Materials and Methods
The study population consisted of 28 women with multiple sclerosis, aged 30 to 55 years, with an Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of 1–4، into two groups of 14 (experimental and control) based on EDSS scores. The Otago exercise protocol was designed from simple to complex and was performed by the patients for 8 weeks, three sessions per week, each session lasting 45 minutes. Static balance variables were assessed using the Functional Reach Test, and dynamic balance was assessed using the Timed Up and Go test, both before and after the intervention. Data analysis was conducted using repeated measures analysis of variance. (P ≤ 0.05).
Results
The results showed a significant improvement in static and dynamic balance in the experimental group compared to the control group in the Timed Up and Go test (P = 0.001) and the Functional Reach Test (P = 0.002) in the post-test.
Conclusion
Based on the obtained results, the Otago exercise protocol can significantly improve static and dynamic balance in patients with MS.