Generalised cognitive motor interference in multiple sclerosis

Learmonth, Y.C.ORCID: 0000-0002-4857-8480, Pilutti, L.A. and Motl, R.W. (2015) Generalised cognitive motor interference in multiple sclerosis. Gait & Posture, 42 (1). pp. 96-100.

Abstract

Researchers have examined cognitive motor interference (CMI) for lower extremity function in MS, but have not examined this in the upper extremity. This study examined CMI for both lower and upper extremity motor tasks in persons with MS and without MS. Eighty-two persons walked on a GAITRite electronic walkway (velocity) and performed the nine-hole peg test (NHPT, seconds) without (single task) and with a cognitive challenge (dual task). The data were analysed with mixed-factor ANOVA and Pearson correlations. When comparing MS and controls, there were statistical significant and exceptionally large Task main effects on gait velocity (ηp 2=.41; F1,60=55.78; p<.005) and NHPT performance (ηp 2=.62; F1,60=127.8; p<.005). When considering disability status among those with MS, there were statistically significant and large Task main effects on velocity (ηp 2=.38; F1,60=37.3; p<.005) and NHPT test (ηp 2=.62; F1,60=95.7; p<.005). The dual task cost of walking and performing the NHPT were significantly correlated in the entire sample, those with MS and controls, and in those with MS who had mild, moderate, and severe disability (all |r|>.450). CMI occurs in both the lower and upper extremities, and is comparable between persons with and without MS and across MS disability level.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Publisher:	Elsevier
Copyright:	© 2015 Elsevier B.V.
URI:	http://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/37701

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