The relationship between spasticity, quality of life and other neurological impairments in multiple sclerosis

Milinis, Kristijonas The relationship between spasticity, quality of life and other neurological impairments in multiple sclerosis. Master of Philosophy thesis, University of Liverpool.

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Abstract

Background: Previous research has shown that spasticity negatively affects physical functioning and health status, however information on its impact on overall quality of life (QOL) in multiple sclerosis (MS) is limited. Furthermore, qualitative studies indicate that spasticity may affect a number of MS-associated conditions such as fatigue, depression, anxiety, pain and sleep. However these relationships have not been examined in the quantitative studies. Objectives: 1) To determine the effect of spasticity on overall QOL. 2) To investigate the relationships between spasticity and other neurological impairments associated with MS. Methods: Demographic details were obtained and a questionnaire pack containing the World Health Organization Quality Of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF), Leeds MS QOL scale (LMSQOL), World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS), Multiple Sclerosis Spasticity Scale-88 (MSSS-88), Numerical Rating Scale (NRS 0-10) for spasticity, Neurological Fatigue Index - MS (NFI-MS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), SF-Qualiveen for bladder dysfunction and Neuropathic Pain Scale (NPS) was given to patients at three UK neuroscience centres. Results: 260 patients completed the questionnaire pack. 84.8% reported spasticity. 56.1% had moderate (NRS 4-6) or severe (NRS 7-10) spasticity. Patients with spasticity were more likely to be disabled, suffer from depression, have higher levels of fatigue and report more pain, bladder and sleep problems (p0.05). Depression and fatigue were the strongest predictors of poor QOL, which is consistent with current literature. Conclusions: Spasticity is very common in MS and is often severe and disabling. There is a strong association between spasticity and fatigue, depression, pain, sleep and bladder problems. The findings suggest that spasticity might directly and indirectly influence overall QOL.

Item Type:	Thesis (Master of Philosophy)
Additional Information:	Date: 2014-06 (completed)
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	02 Feb 2015 11:39
Last Modified:	17 Dec 2022 01:34
DOI:	10.17638/02006324
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/2006324