Cervical proprioception and dysphagia severity in multiple sclerosis: A cross-sectional clinical analysis

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between dysphagia severity and neck proprioception, pain, and mood in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). The individuals were divided into two groups according to the severity of dysphagia: dysphagia group (n = 13) with a score of 3 and above on the Dysphagia Assessment Scale in Multiple Sclerosis (DYMUS) scale and mild dysphagia group (n = 13) with a score of 2 and below. Clinical swallowing function was evaluated with the Turkish version of the Eating Assessment Tool-10 (T-EAT-10) and DYMUS. Proprioception was assessed with a laser by noting the deviation from the center target in centimeters. Neck pain severity was assessed with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and mood was assessed with the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Individuals with severe dysphagia demonstrated statistically significantly greater proprioceptive impairment in cervical extension and right rotation. A significant difference was also found between the two groups in terms of clinical swallowing evaluations, neck pain status, and mood measurements. The findings suggest that proprioceptive deficits, increased pain, and mood disturbances are closely associated with dysphagia severity in MS. A multidimensional approach addressing dysphagia, proprioception, and pain management may be beneficial in optimizing dysphagia rehabilitation in patients with MS.