12-week melatonin supplementation improved dynamic postural stability and walking performance in persons living with multiple sclerosis: A randomized controlled trial
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) suffer from sleep disturbances, fatigue and pain, which can be due, at least in part, to decreased levels of endogenous melatonin. These disorders could exacerbate postural instability, gait disorders and fall risk. Acute effects of exogenous melatonin on MS-related physical disorders have been studied but its long-term effects on these parameters have not been explored yet in PwMS. This study aimed to determine the impact of chronic melatonin intake on dynamic postural stability, walking performance and fall risk in PwMS.
METHODS
This randomized placebo-controlled study included 27 PwMS who were assigned to either melatonin group (MG, n=15) or placebo group (PG, n=12) (3mg/night for 12 weeks). Dynamic postural balance (force platform), walking performance (locometer) and fall risk (Four Square Step Test) were evaluated pre- (T0) and post-intervention (T1). Sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)), fatigue perception (Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS)), neuropathic pain (Neuropathic Pain Questionnaire 4 (DN4)) and quality of life (the International Multiple Sclerosis (MS)) quality of life questionnaire) were also assessed at T0 and T1.
RESULTS
The center of pressure mean velocity decreased in MG compared with PG (22.98%, p=0.028) in the frontal plane. In MG, stride length and walking speed increased (18.09%, p=0.036; 9.65%, p=0.025, respectively) comparatively with PG. The PSQI (55.89%, p<0.001), FSS (32.38%, p=0.003)…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 15 participants or records.
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