The Validity and Reliability of the Modified O'Sullivan Functional Balance (mOFB) Test for Multiple Sclerosis

This study aims to investigate the validity and reliability of the Modified O'Sullivan Functional Balance (OFB) Test, which is used to assess balance in individuals diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic nervous system disease that can cause symptoms such as balance problems, difficulty walking, and fatigue, which negatively affect daily life. Balance disorders are common in MS patients, increasing the risk of falls and leading to a decrease in physical activity levels. Therefore, the accurate and reliable assessment of balance in MS patients is of great importance. This study will include volunteer MS patients treated at the Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Department of SANKO University Sani Konukoğlu Application and Research Hospital who meet the inclusion criteria. After recording the participants' demographic and disease-related information, their balance, body control, and walking skills will be assessed using various clinical tests. These tests include the Berg Balance Test, Mini-BESTest, O'Sullivan Functional Balance Test, Modified O'Sullivan Functional Balance Test, Trunk Instability Scale, and L Test. Assessments will be conducted taking into account the fatigue commonly seen in MS patients, and participants will be allowed to rest when needed. The results obtained will reveal whether the Modified O'Sullivan Functional Balance Test is a reliable and applicable method for assessing balance in MS patients. It is anticipated that the results of this study will contribute to clinical practice in the assessment of balance in MS patients and assist in the more effective planning of the rehabilitation process.