The function of upper body extremities appears to be related to cognitive function and disability level among patients with multiple sclerosis, a new study indicates.

The study authors sought to evaluate the relationship between hand and arm function with cognitive function, disability and fatigue among MS patients. A total of 31 patients with MS were compared with 30 subjects without MS.

All participants underwent a cognitive test, an MS-related quality of life survey and fatigue evaluation. In addition, the subjects completed a 9-hole peg test, which is a timed test of fine motor coordination, and a test of upper body range of motion and work tolerance.

The investigators found that patients with MS demonstrated significant impairment of upper extremity motor functions, cognitive function and excessive fatigue as compared with those who did not have MS. Among the patients with MS, outcomes of the 9-hole peg test were related to disability, physical health-related quality of life and cognitive function.

The test of upper body range of motion and work tolerance was related to disability among the MS patients. Furthermore, as compared with those without MS, the authors found a strong relationship between the 9-hole peg test and the test of upper body range of motion and work tolerance.

Complete study findings were published online May 5 ahead of print by the Journal of Neurological Sciences.