Physiotherapeutic interventions in multiple sclerosis across Europe: Regions and other factors that matter

Abstract

To our knowledge this is the first study that has explored this topic in MS. The results broaden our understanding of the different PT interventions used in MS, as well as the context of their use.

Content and Delivery of Physical Therapy in Multiple Sclerosis across Europe: A Survey

“…Balance training and postural awareness, training for transfers and ambulatory abilities, muscle stretching, strengthening, and aerobic training are well-known interventions and the most frequently used (Figure 1). The previous publication by Martinková et al [7] focused on region differences and other factors that matter in the use of PT interventions, finding significant region differences in most interventions. For example, Vojta reflex locomotion or the Perfetti approach are considered key interventions in one region but are used very rarely/not known at all by PTs in other regions.…”

“…This questionnaire survey was part of the COPHYREQUEST project [6]. In previous studies, the views from country and centre representatives on MS organisation were published [12], and PT interventions used in MS patients were described [7]. In this article, answers from individual PTs focussing on content and delivery of PT interventions in MS are analysed.…”

“…Of these, 133 PTs from 43 centers completed the questionnaire. An additional 79 PTs from 73 centers were recruited at conferences organized by the Rehabilitation in Multiple Sclerosis Network (www.eurims.org), also see [7].…”

“…(1) Organizational aspects of physical therapy such as teamwork, rules of PT prescriptions, specialization of centers and types of services provided [6], and (2) The wide variety of PT interventions used by different European centers [7].…”

“…We are aware that there are many different PT interventions available to treat patients with MS [7]. In addition, views about what PT entails differ.…”