Training with Non-dominant Limb: A Helpful Strategy for Motor Function and Dual-task Cost in Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Background: The use of the inter-limb transfer mechanism in the rehabilitation of Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of non-dominant hand training on motor function and dual-task cost in MS patients. 

Methods: 22 women with a mean age of 44.09 ± 7.26 years and the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 3.83 ± 0.76 were randomly divided into control (n=11) and experimental (n=11) groups. Nine Hole Peg Test (NHPT), Box and Block Test (BBT), and Dual-Task Cost test (DTC) took as pre-tests from the participants. Post-test was taken 24 hours after the last intervention session and the retention test one week later. 

Results: The results showed that the motor function (NHPT and BBT) of the experimental group improved in both dominant and non-dominant hands (P≤0.05). However, a significant decrease was observed in both dominant and non-dominant hands in the control group for NHPT and BBT (P≤ 0.05). Also, the experimental group had a lower Dual-Task Cost than the control (P < 0.001) in the post-test. 

Conclusion: According to the results, inter-limb transfer mechanisms can be used in the rehabilitation of MS patients in both motor and cognitive dimensions.