Self-management of falls in people with multiple sclerosis: A scoping review

Abstract

Objective Falls are common in people with multiple sclerosis. There is rising interest in how the multifactorial and chronic nature of fall risk among people with multiple sclerosis can be addressed through self-management. Thus, the aims were to investigate the extent and the scope of publications on self-management of falls in people with multiple sclerosis, and to identify how the concept of self-management was defined and used. Data sources A systematic literature search in Medline, Cochrane, Web of Science and PsycInfo was conducted to identify publications until July 2022. Review methods Published methodological guidance was followed. Articles targeting: (1) people with multiple sclerosis, (2) falls, and (3) self-management were selected. Of 1656 records, 203 publications were assessed for eligibility, of which 173 did not meet the inclusion criteria, and 16 publications did not contain empirical data. The type of publication, study focus, and study design was extracted. If applicable, key findings, self-management tasks and skills, and the definition of self-management were extracted. Results Fourteen original articles met all inclusion criteria. Ten articles represented six different fall prevention interventions. Three publications were randomized controlled trials. Self-management content was variable and not comprehensive in nature. None of the 14 publications included a self-management definition. Conclusion The limited number of original articles and the even fewer intervention studies show that the research on self-management of falls in people with multiple sclerosis is in its infancy. To progress in the research area of self-management of falls, a more robust, consensus-based description of self-management frameworks and activities is needed.

Struggling to Keep Up and Have a Good Life: A Qualitative Study of Living With Impaired Balance Control Due to Multiple Sclerosis

“…Behavioral aspects contributing to the minimization of environmental impacts are crucial; however, there is still limited evidence as to how PwMS should be supported to change such behavior and thereby manage the impact of environmental stimuli themselves. 30 Moreover, the complex conditions described as affecting balance control highlight the need for each PwMS to explore and understand how they interact and impact the performance of activities. This knowledge is often difficult to acquire alone, therefore counseling organized by health care providers is needed and should be offered.…”

Effect of Self-management Guidelines on Health Practices of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

“…A single point was assigned for each done answer, while not done answers received no points. The total score is 15, divided in to categories; (9)(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15) were considered adequate and (0-8) were considered in adequate.…”