Physical functioning in multiple sclerosis: a population-based study in central Finland.
OBJECTIVE
To describe multiple sclerosis and its impact on individuals' perceived problems in functioning, particularly in the domains of self-care, mobility and domestic life.


METHODS
A population-based study in a prevalence cohort of multiple sclerosis subjects in Central Finland region carried out in the year 2000.


METHODS
A total of 240 subjects with multiple sclerosis.


METHODS
A postal questionnaire for assessing physical functioning was developed.


RESULTS
Ninety percent of the study population completed the study. Subjects' average age was 48.2 years (range 20-76 years) and time since symptom onset was 15.8 years (range 0-56 years). Of the subjects, 82% were fully independent in self-care activities and 53% in domestic life, 50% were able to walk without any perceived problems and 38% had a permanent need for a walking aid. Fatigue was the most frequent complaint having an impact on subjects' daily life. Ninety-five subjects out of 240 (40%) were engaged in working life.


CONCLUSIONS
These data give a clear indication of favourable functioning in mobility, self-care and domestic life. However, the fact remains that multiple sclerosis is a disabling and costly disease. These results provide information for use by local and national authorities in planning and co-ordinating rehabilitation interventions and social services.
Paltamaa
Jaana
J
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Central Hospital of Central Finland, Keskussairaalantie 19, FIN 40620 Jyväskylä, Finland. jaana.paltamaa@ksshp.fi
Sarasoja
Taneli
T
Wikström
Juhani
J
Mälkiä
Esko
E
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D015331:Cohort Studies; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D004651:Employment; D005260:Female; D005387:Finland / Q000453:epidemiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009043:Motor Activity / Q000502:physiology; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D011597:Psychomotor Performance / Q000502:physiology; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016138:Walking / Q000502:physiology