Learning of a novel visuo-postural co-ordination task in adults with multiple sclerosis.
OBJECTIVE
A behavioural study was conducted to investigate how cerebellar dysfunction associated with multiple sclerosis affects the ability to learn a novel visuo-postural co-ordination task.


METHODS
A prospective design, 2 group by 1 treatment (4 practice blocks).


METHODS
Ten patients with multiple sclerosis diagnosed with cerebellar ataxia and 10 age-matched healthy controls.


METHODS
Participants stood over a dual force platform (ERBE Balance System) and performed visually guided lateral weight-shifting movements. The task required subjects to gradually transfer weight between sides while maintaining each foot's force vector within visually specified force constraints ranging from 0% to 100% of bodyweight with maximum allowed variation set to +/-20%. The time required to complete the task and the number of spatial errors (noted each time the foot's vector exceeded the +/-20% force constraint) were recorded. Training consisted of 3 blocks of 5 trials separated by 1-minute intervals and followed by 5 retention trials.


CONCLUSIONS
Statistics revealed a significant decrease in movement time and spatial errors across trial blocks in both groups; however, the group with multiple sclerosis showed a limited and slower rate of performance improvement characterized by increased within- and between-subject variability. These findings may have important implications in the design of rehabilitation protocols for improving motor skill performance in adults with multiple sclerosis.
Hatzitaki
Vassilia
V
Laboratory of Motor Control & Learning, Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Greece. vaso1@phed.auth.gr
Koudouni
Anastasia
A
Orologas
Anastasios
A
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004856:Postural Balance / Q000502:physiology; D011187:Posture; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011597:Psychomotor Performance; D014796:Visual Perception