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Physical functioning in multiple sclerosis: a population-based study in central Finland.

Jaana Paltamaa·Taneli Sarasoja·Juhani Wikström·Esko Mälkiä
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Abstract

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

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Activities of Daily LivingAdultAgedCohort StudiesCross-Sectional StudiesPersons with DisabilitiesEmploymentFemaleFinlandHumansMaleMiddle AgedMotor ActivityMultiple SclerosisPsychomotor PerformanceSocial SupportSurveys and QuestionnairesWalkingJournal ArticleResearch Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

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Jaana Paltamaa, Taneli Sarasoja, Juhani Wikström, Esko Mälkiä. 2006. Physical functioning in multiple sclerosis: a population-based study in central Finland.. https://doi.org/10.1080/16501970600731537

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