Evaluation of Thoracic Kyphosis Angle and Respiratory Functions in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Background. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune demyelinating disease. Muscle weakness, tremors, balance disorders, and gait instability are observed in MS patients. Also, the respiratory muscles' weakness can lead to decreased respiratory capacity, resulting in pneumonia and acute respiratory failure. Objectives. This study evaluates thoracic kyphosis angle (TKA) and respiratory functions in MS patients and healthy groups. Methods. The study consists of 40 patients with MS (mean age of 39±7.89 years, mean height of 167.5 ± 10.19 cm, mean weight of 73.12 ± 14.40 kg) and 41 healthy subjects (mean age of 37.12 ± 8.89 years, mean height of 167.9 ± 10.76 cm, mean weight of 72.7 ± 16.91 kg). Respiratory function tests and TKA measurements were performed. Results. There was a statistically significant difference between TKA measurements in MS patients and healthy subjects (p < 0.05). The respiratory function test values in the healthy subjects were also significantly higher than in the MS patients (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Changes in respiratory function due to muscle weakness and altered posture and TKA in MS patients should be considered in treatment.