Efficacy of physical therapy in multiple sclerosis as measured with the modified fatigue impact scale and ambulation index: A retrospective study

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the efficacy of outcome measures routinely used in a physical therapy service for Multiple Sclerosis (MS). DESIGN: We performed a retrospective review of 500 medical records of MS patients from the outpatients service of AISM Rehabilitation Centre, Genova, Italy. PATIENTS: All records of outpatients followed by AISM Rehabilitation Centre who underwent physical therapy from 2006 to 2008 were evaluated. METHODS: Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS) and Ambulation Index (AI) were reviewed for all records at the begin and at the end of the rehabilitation treatment. RESULTS: The number of assessments recorded was 295 in 209 patients. Out of the 209 patients, 133 were female and 76 were male. The mean age was 51.6 ± 11.68 years, the mean Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score was 4.98 ± 1.79, and 185 patients were ambulatory. In nonambulatory patients neither scale showed a significant increase. In ambulatory patients (275 assessments) significant changes were observed in AI, MFIS total score and subscores. CONCLUSION: Physical therapy has a positive impact on fatigue, and the MFIS seems to be a good outcome measure in ambulatory patients. The AI and MFIS seem to be not indicated for use in non-ambulatory patients.