The effects of electrical stimulation treatment on adults with MS with swallowing problems

Not Applicable

Completed

• Conditions: Multiple Sclerosis; Swallowing problems; Neurological - Multiple sclerosis; Oral and Gastrointestinal - Other diseases of the mouth, teeth, oesophagus, digestive system including liver and colon

• Registration Number: ACTRN12619000414112
• Lead Sponsor: Hans Bogaardt

Brief Summary

1. Research question Is neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) effective in treating swallowing problems in adults with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)? 2. Background information There are limited treatment options for swallowing problems for adults with MS. In previous studies, NMES showed positive effects in treating swallowing problems in adults with MS, however these studies had limitations. 3. Participant characteristics Twelve adults with mild MS were randomly assigned to a treatment group, who received active stimulation and exercise (n=6) or control group, who received sham stimulation and exercise (n=6). Randomisation and allocation to trial group were carried out by a computer system. Both groups were treated twice per week for three weeks. At baseline and two weeks post treatment, their swallowing function was assessed using fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) ted to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment using outcome measures including bolus residue scale (BRS), penetration/aspiration scale (PAS), functional oral intake scale (FOIS) and swallowing quality of life questionnaire (SWALQOL). 4. Key results The study suggests a potential benefit of NMES in reducing residue of thick fluids in adults with mild MS with swallowing problems. It was also beneficial in improving their quality of life. No adverse effects were reported during or after the treatment. 5. Limitations The greatest limitation of this study was the low number of participant

Detailed Description

Not available

Study Timeline

• Results First Posted: 1900-01-01
• Study Completion: 2018-12-04
• Study Start: 2019-03-13
• Last Update Posted: 15 July 2019

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: Completed
• Sex: All
• Target Recruitment: 12

Inclusion Criteria

Initial eligibility criteria for participants were adults above the age of 18 years, with a confirmed diagnosis of MS and a self/family report of swallowing difficulties. Further eligibility criteria were based on the presence of swallowing difficulties as shown in the FEES during the first session.

Exclusion Criteria

Exclusion criteria were a history of dysphagia that was unrelated to MS, previous treatment with electrical stimulation, or if they did not meet any of the inclusion criteria..

Study & Design

• Study Type: Interventional
• Study Design: Not specified