Identification of Factors Related to UI in Patients With MS and EMG Assessment of PFM Activity

Expanded disability status scale (EDSS)

The Expanded disability status scale (EDSS) will be assessed disability and progression in PwMS, with scores from 0 (normal neurological exam) to 10 (death from MS). Higher scores indicate greater disability.

Time frame: Single assessment at enrollment

Neurogenic Bladder Symptom Score (NBSS)

Storage, voiding, and complication symptoms of neurogenic bladder will be assessed with the Neurogenic Bladder Symptom Score (NBSS), a 24-item questionnaire covering incontinence, storage and voiding, and outcomes.

Time frame: Single assessment at enrollment

International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form (ICIQ-SF)

The frequency and amount of leakage will be assessed using a six-item scale, and urinary incontinence will be categorised into four groups: mild (1-5), moderate (6-12), severe (13-18) and very severe.

Time frame: Single assessment at enrollment

Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ-7)

Urinary symptoms' impact on daily activities was assessed with the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ-7). The 7-item Likert scale has a score range of 0-21, with higher scores reflecting an increased negative impact of incontinence on social functioning, quality of life, and physical activity.

Time frame: Single assessment at enrollment

Pelvic Floor Muscle Activity

An electromyography (EMG) device with surface electrodes will be used to assess pelvic floor muscle (PFM) activity. Patients received training beforehand, and measurements were taken noninvasively with two electrodes around the perineum and vagina and one on the inner thigh in women.

Time frame: Single assessment at enrollment

International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)

The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) assesses the frequency and duration of vigorous, moderate, and walking-like activities over a week. The values are multiplied by factors of 8, 4, and 3.3 Metabolic Equivalent of Tasks, respectively, to help measure overall physical activity. The minimum score for the IPAQ is 0, while there is no theoretically determined maximum score. Higher scores are associated with the individual engaging in a higher level of physical activity.