The MoXFo initiative - adherence: Exercise adherence, compliance and sustainability among people with multiple sclerosis: An overview and roadmap for research.

We know very little about exercise adherence, compliance and sustainability in multiple sclerosis (MS), yet adherence is seemingly important for yielding immediate and sustained health benefits. This paper is focused on exercise adherence, compliance and sustainability in the context of informing research and practice involving MS. This focus is critical for clarifying terminology for future research and providing a roadmap guiding clinical research and practice. Our objective was accomplished through a narrative summary of the literature by a panel of experts on exercise adherence from the Moving Exercise Research in Multiple Sclerosis Forward (MoXFo) initiative and a concluding summary of the state of the literature and future research directions. The panel of experts identified three overall themes (Background and Importance; Understanding and Promoting Exercise Adherence, Compliance and Sustainability and Challenges to Exercise Adherence, Compliance and Sustainability) that represented a categorization of nine subthemes. These overall themes and subthemes formed the basis of our recommendations regarding future research broadly involving exercise adherence in MS. Overall, there is limited evidence on rates and determinants of exercise adherence and compliance in MS, and little is known about techniques and interventions for immediate and long-term exercise behaviour change.

Physical Activity in Multiple Sclerosis: Meeting the Guidelines at the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Regular physical activity (PA) helps to reduce the severity of physical and mental symptoms and improves quality of life in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Based on current evidence and expert opinion, the recent multiple sclerosis guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes/week of PA. This study presents the results of a survey analyzing whether and how PwMS met the guidelines before and during the pandemic. METHODS: We developed and disseminated an international online survey between December 2020 and July 2021, investigating changes in self-reported PA type, duration, frequency, and intensity due to the COVID-19 outbreak in PwMS with differing disability levels. RESULTS: Among respondents (n = 3810), 3725 were eligible. The proportion of those who conducted at least one activity decreased with increasing disability level at both time points (pre and during). Overall 60% of respondents met the guidelines before the pandemic (mild: 64.43%; moderate: 51.53%; severe: 39.34%; χ 2(2) = 109.13, P < 0.01); a reduction of approximately 10% occurred during the pandemic in all disability groups (mild: 54.76%; moderate: 42.47%; severe: 29.48%; χ 2(2) = 109.67, P < 0.01). Respondents with higher disability participated more in physical therapy and less in walking, cycling, and running at both time points. Most respondents reported practicing PA at a moderate intensity at both time points; frequency and duration of sessions decreased as disability level increased. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: The percentage of those meeting the guidelines reduced with increasing disability level and during the pandemic. PA type and intensity varied widely across the disability categories. Interventions accounting for disability level are required to enable more PwMS to reap the benefits of PA.Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A415 ).

Preliminary findings from the early phases of the Music and Movement for Health study: the feasibility of an arts-based health programme for older adults.

Introduction (including aim): There is a lack of community-based programmes for older adults in Ireland. Such activities are vital to enable older people to (re)connect after COVID-19 measures, which had a detrimental effect on physical function, mental health and socialisation. The aims of the preliminary phases of the Music and Movement for Health study were to refine stakeholder informed eligibility criteria, recruitment pathways and obtain preliminary measures for feasibility of the study design and programme, which incorporates research evidence, practice expertise and participant involvement. METHODS: Two Transparent Expert Consultations (TECs) (EHSREC No: 2021_09_12_EHS), and Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) meetings were conducted to refine eligibility criteria and recruitment pathways. Participants from three geographical regions in the mid-west of Ireland will be recruited and randomised by cluster to participate in either a 12-week Music and Movement for Health programme or control. We will assess the feasibility and success of these recruitment strategies by reporting recruitment rates, retention rates and participation in the programme. RESULTS: Both the TECs and PPIs provided stakeholder-informed specification on inclusion/ exclusion criteria and recruitment pathways. This feedback was vital in strengthening our community-based approach as well as effecting change at the local level. The success of these strategies from phase 1 (March-June) are pending. DISCUSSION: Through engaging with relevant stakeholders, this research aims to strengthen community systems by embedding feasible, enjoyable, sustainable and cost-effective programmes for older adults to support community connection and enhance health and wellbeing. This will, in turn, reduce demands on the healthcare system.Note: We would like to thank and acknowledge those who participated in the PPIs for their time and invaluable feedback.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Physical Activity and Associated Technology Use in Persons With Multiple Sclerosis: An International RIMS-SIG Mobility Survey Study.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical activity in persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). DESIGN: Multicenter international online survey study. SETTING: The survey was conducted within 11 participating countries. Each country launched the survey using online platforms from May to July 2021. PARTICIPANTS: This was an electronic survey study targeting PwMS (N=3725). INTERVENTION: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The survey ascertained physical activity performance and its intensity, the nature of the activities conducted, and the use of technology to support home-based physical activity before and during the pandemic. RESULTS: A total of 3725 respondents completed the survey. Prepandemic, the majority (83%) of respondents reported being physically active, and this decreased to 75% during the pandemic. This change was significant for moderate- and high-intensity activity (P<.0001). Activities carried out in physiotherapy centers, gyms, or pools decreased the most. Walking was the most frequently performed activity prepandemic (27%) and increased during the pandemic (33%). A total of 24% of those inactive during the pandemic had no intention of changing their physical activity behavior post pandemic. A total of 58% of the respondents did not use technology to support physical activity during the pandemic. Of those who did use technology, wearables were most used (24%). Of those currently nonactive (25%) expressed a preference for an in-person format to conduct physical activity post pandemic. CONCLUSIONS: Physical activity performance, especially activities at moderate and high intensities, decreased during the pandemic in PwMS compared with prepandemic. Walking and using wearables gained popularity as ways to stay active. As we move toward an endemic COVID-19, a call for action to develop interventions focused on walking programs with specific emphasis on increasing physical activity of PwMS is proposed.

Home-based Pilates for symptoms of anxiety, depression and fatigue among persons with multiple sclerosis: An 8-week randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Symptoms of anxiety, depression and fatigue are common comorbidities among persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). A previous pilot study supported Pilates as a feasible exercise modality that may improve these outcomes among PwMS. OBJECTIVE: To quantify the effects of 8 weeks of home-based Pilates on symptoms of anxiety, depression and fatigue among PwMS. METHODS: A total of 80 PwMS (69 female) were randomized to twice-weekly home-based Pilates guided by a DVD) or wait-list control. Validated questionnaires assessed anxiety, depressive and fatigue symptoms at baseline, weeks 2, 4, 6 and 8. Using intention to treat, repeated measures analysis of covariance (RM-ANCOVA) adjusted for baseline physical activity examined between-group differences across time. Hedges' d quantified the magnitude of differences in outcome change. Sensitivity analyses examined female-only samples. RESULTS: Group × time interactions were statistically significant for all outcomes (all p ⩽ 0.005). Pilates significantly reduced (all p ⩽ 0.03) depressive symptoms (Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology, d = 0.70; Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Depression, d = 0.74), anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, d = 0.30; Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Anxiety, d = 0.49), cognitive (d = 0.44), physical (d = 0.78), psychosocial (d = 0.56) and total fatigue (d = 0.76). Female-only results were materially the same. CONCLUSION: Home-based Pilates significantly improved anxiety, depressive and fatigue symptoms among PwMS with minimal-to-mild mobility disability, including moderate-to-large, clinically meaningful improvements in depressive and fatigue symptoms.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04120207).

Effectiveness of interventions to prevent falls for people with multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease and stroke: an umbrella review.

BACKGROUND: The implementation of condition-specific falls prevention interventions is proving challenging due to lack of critical mass and resources. Given the similarities in falls risk factors across stroke, Parkinson's Disease (PD) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the development of an intervention designed for groups comprising of people with these three neurological conditions may provide a pragmatic solution to these challenges. The aims of this umbrella review were to investigate the effectiveness of falls prevention interventions in MS, PD and stroke, and to identify the commonalities and differences between effective interventions for each condition to inform the development of an intervention for mixed neurological groups. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted using 15 electronic databases, grey literature searches and hand-screening of reference lists. Systematic reviews of studies investigating the effects of falls prevention interventions in MS, PD and stroke were included. Methodological quality of reviews was assessed using the A MeaSurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2. A matrix of evidence table was used to assess the degree of overlap. The Grading of Recommendations Assessments, Development and Evaluation framework was used to rate the quality of evidence. Findings were presented through narrative synthesis and a summary of evidence table. RESULTS: Eighteen reviews were included; three investigating effectiveness of falls prevention interventions in MS, 11 in PD, three in stroke, and one in both PD and stroke. Exercise-based interventions were the most commonly investigated for all three conditions, but differences were identified in the content and delivery of these interventions. Low to moderate quality evidence was found for the effectiveness of exercise-based interventions at reducing falls in PD. Best available evidence suggests that exercise is effective at reducing falls in stroke but no evidence of effect was identified in MS. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that exercise-based interventions are effective at reducing falls in PD, however, the evidence for MS and stroke is less conclusive. A strong theoretical rationale remains for the use of exercise-based interventions to address modifiable physiological falls risk factors for people with MS, PD and stroke, supporting the feasibility of a mixed-diagnosis intervention. Given the high overlap and low methodological quality of primary studies, the focus should be on the development of high-quality trials investigating the effectiveness of falls prevention interventions, rather than the publication of further systematic reviews.

Risk factors for falling for people with Multiple Sclerosis identified in a prospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: To identify risk factors for falling for people with Multiple Sclerosis. DESIGN: Prospective cohort study. SETTING: Neurology service in a tertiary hospital. SUBJECTS: Participants were 101 people with Multiple Sclerosis and Expanded Disability Status Score of 3-6.5. One participant withdrew after the baseline assessment; data were analysed for 100 participants. INTERVENTIONS: No intervention. MAIN MEASURES: Outcome was rate of falls, and predictors were Timed Up and Go, Symbol Digit Modalities test, demographics and 15 self-report questions about various symptoms including fatigue, concentration, dual tasking, bladder and bowel control. Three-month prospective diaries recorded falls. RESULTS: There were 791 falls reported over the 3-month period from a total of 56 fallers. Falls rate per person-year was 32.08 falls. Following multivariable regression analysis, the model with the greatest levels of clinical utility and discriminative ability (sensitivity 88% and area under the receiving operating curve statistic = 0.72, 95% CI 0.62-0.82), included the variables of history of a fall, not having visual problems, problems with bladder control and a slower speed on the Timed Up and Go. CONCLUSION: This study confirms the high incidence of falls for people with Multiple Sclerosis and provides a risk prediction model including fall history, problems with bladder control, not having visual problems and a slower Timed Up and Go speed that may be used to identify those at greater risk and in need of tailored falls prevention intervention.

Exercise and lifestyle physical activity recommendations for people with multiple sclerosis throughout the disease course.

OBJECTIVES: To provide clinicians who treat multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with evidence-based or expert opinion-based recommendations for promoting exercise and lifestyle physical activity across disability levels. METHODS: The National MS Society ("Society") convened clinical and research experts in the fields of MS, exercise, rehabilitation, and physical activity to (1) reach consensus on optimal exercise and lifestyle physical activity recommendations for individuals with MS at disability levels 0-9.0 on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and (2) identify and address barriers/facilitators for participation. RECOMMENDATIONS: Based on current evidence and expert opinion, the Society makes the following recommendations, endorsed by the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers:Healthcare providers should endorse and promote the benefits/safety of exercise and lifestyle physical activity for every person with MS.Early evaluation by a physical or occupational therapist or exercise or sport scientist, experienced in MS (hereafter referred to as "specialists"), is recommended to establish an individualized exercise and/or lifestyle physical activity plan.Taking into account comorbidities and symptom fluctuations, healthcare providers should encourage ⩾150 min/week of exercise and/or ⩾150 min/week of lifestyle physical activity.Progress toward these targets should be gradual, based on the person's abilities, preferences, and safety.If disability increases and exercise/physical activity becomes more challenging, referrals to specialists are essential to ensure safe and appropriate prescriptions.When physical mobility is very limited, exercise should be facilitated by a trained assistant.

Moving exercise research in multiple sclerosis forward (the MoXFo initiative): Developing consensus statements for research.

Exercise as a subset of physical activity is a cornerstone in the management of multiple sclerosis (MS) based on its pleotropic effects. There is an exponential increase in the quantity of research on exercise in MS, yet a number of barriers associated with study content and quality hamper rapid progress in the field. To address these barriers and accelerate discovery, a new international partnership of MS-related experts in exercise has emerged with the goal of advancing the research agenda. As a first step, the expert panel met in May 2018 and identified the most urgent areas for moving the field forward, and discussed the framework for such a process. This led to identification of five themes, namely "Definitions and terminology," "Study methodology," "Reporting and outcomes," "Adherence to exercise," and "Mechanisms of action." Based on the identified themes, five expert groups have been formed, that will further (a) outline the challenges per theme and (b) provide recommendations for moving forward. We aim to involve and collaborate with people with MS/MS organizations (e.g. Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) and European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP)) in all of these five themes. The generation of this thematic framework with multi-expert perspectives can bolster the quality and scope of exercise studies in MS that may ultimately improve the daily lives of people with MS.

Interventions for preventing falls in people with multiple sclerosis.

BACKGROUND: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most prevalent diseases of the central nervous system with recent prevalence estimates indicating that MS directly affects 2.3 million people worldwide. Fall rates of 56% have been reported among people with MS in a recent meta-analysis. Clinical guidelines do not outline an evidence-based approach to falls interventions in MS. There is a need for synthesised information regarding the effectiveness of falls prevention interventions in MS. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this review was to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions designed to reduce falls in people with MS. Specific objectives included comparing: (1) falls prevention interventions to controls and; (2) different types of falls prevention interventions. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Trials Register of the Cochrane Multiple Sclerosis and Rare Diseases of the CNS Group, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (2018 Issue 9); MEDLINE (PubMed) (1966 to 12 September 2018); Embase (EMBASE.com) (1974 to 12 September 2018); Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (EBSCOhost) (1981 to 12 September 2018); Latin American and Caribbean Health Science Information Database (Bireme) (1982 to 12 September 2018); ClinicalTrials.gov; and World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform; PsycINFO (1806 to 12 September 2018; and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (1999 to 12 September 2018). SELECTION CRITERIA: We selected randomised controlled trials or quasi-randomised trials of interventions to reduce falls in people with MS. We included trials that examined falls prevention interventions compared to controls or different types of falls prevention interventions. Primary outcomes included: falls rate, risk of falling, number of falls per person and adverse events. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors screened studies for selection, assessed risk of bias and extracted data. We used a rate ratio (RaR) and 95% confidence interval to compare falls rate between groups. For risk of falling, we used a risk ratio (RR) and 95% CI based on the number of fallers in each group. MAIN RESULTS: A total of 839 people with MS (12 to 177 individuals) were randomised in the 13 included trials. The mean age of the participants was 52 years (36 to 62 years). The percentage of women participants ranged from 59% to 85%. Studies included people with all types of MS. Most trials compared an exercise intervention with no intervention or different types of falls prevention interventions. We included two comparisons: (1) Falls prevention intervention versus control and (2) Falls prevention intervention versus another falls prevention intervention. The most common interventions tested were exercise as a single intervention, education as a single intervention, functional electrical stimulation and exercise plus education. The risk of bias of the included studies mixed, with nine studies demonstrating high risk of bias related to one or more aspects of their methodology. The evidence was uncertain regarding the effects of exercise versus control on falls rate (RaR of 0.68; 95% CI 0.43 to 1.06; very low-quality evidence), number of fallers (RR of 0.85; 95% CI 0.51 to 1.43; low-quality evidence) and adverse events (RR of 1.25; 95% CI 0.26 to 6.03; low-quality evidence). Data were not available on quality of life outcomes comparing exercise to control. The majority of other comparisons between falls interventions and controls demonstrated no evidence of effect in favour of either group for all primary outcomes. For the comparison of different falls prevention interventions, the heterogeneity of intervention types across studies prohibited the pooling of data. In relation to secondary outcomes, there was evidence of an effect in favour of exercise interventions compared to controls for balance function with a SMD of 0.50 (95% CI 0.09 to 0.92), self-reported mobility with a SMD of 16.30 (95% CI 9.34 to 23.26) and objective mobility with a SMD of 0.28 (95% CI 0.07 to 0.50). Secondary outcomes were not assessed under the GRADE criteria and results must be interpreted with caution. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: The evidence regarding the effects of interventions for preventing falls in MS is sparse and uncertain. The evidence base demonstrates mixed risk of bias, with very low to low certainty of the evidence. There is some evidence in favour of exercise interventions for the improvement of balance function and mobility. However, this must be interpreted with caution as these secondary outcomes were not assessed under the GRADE criteria and as the results represent data from a small number of studies. Robust RCTs examining the effectiveness of multifactorial falls interventions on falls outcomes are needed.

Discriminative ability and clinical utility of the Timed Up and Go (TUG) in identifying falls risk in people with multiple sclerosis: a prospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE:: To investigate discriminative ability and clinical utility of the Timed Up and Go under single- and dual-task conditions between fallers and non-fallers in multiple sclerosis (MS). DESIGN:: Prospective cohort study. SETTING:: Neurology service in a tertiary hospital. SUBJECTS:: Participants were 101 people with MS and Expanded Disability Status Scale score of 3-6.5. One participant withdrew after the baseline assessment, and hence the data were analysed for 100 participants. INTERVENTIONS:: No specific intervention. MAIN MEASURES:: Timed Up and Go and Timed Up and Go-Cognitive. Three-month prospective diaries recorded falls. RESULTS:: Mean age was 52.6 (SD 10.7) and 66 were female. Majority of the participants had progressive MS (72) and 73 used a walking aid; 56 participants recorded 791 falls. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values for Timed Up and Go and Timed Up and Go-Cognitive in distinguishing fallers (person with ⩾1 fall) from non-fallers are 0.60 and 0.57, respectively, and in distinguishing multiple fallers (⩾2 falls) the values are 0.46 and 0.43. A Timed Up and Go score of ⩾9 seconds has a sensitivity of 0.82 and a specificity of 0.34 to identify fallers and a sensitivity of 0.79 and a specificity of 0.27 to identify multiple fallers. A Timed Up and Go-Cognitive score of ⩾11 seconds has a sensitivity of 0.77 and a specificity of 0.30 to identify fallers and a sensitivity of 0.71 and a specificity of 0.26 to identify multiple fallers. CONCLUSION:: The Timed Up and Go and Timed Up and Go-Cognitive do not demonstrate sufficient clinical utility or discriminative ability for assessing falls risk in MS.

Medication usage and falls in people with multiple sclerosis.

There is a need to identify modifiable risk factors for falls in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) to enable the design of successful falls prevention interventions. There is conflicting evidence regarding the association between medication use and occurrence of falls in MS. A total of 101 people with MS had medications classified using the Anatomical Therapeutic Classification system and number of falls prospectively monitored for 3 months. No association was noted between number of medications and falls. The use of genitourinary and sex hormones (odds ratio (OR) = 5.154, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.427-18.609, p = 0.012) and centrally acting muscle relaxant (OR = 5.181, 95% CI = 1.546-17.364, p = 0.008) medications were associated with an increased odds of being a faller.

Changing Physical Activity Behavior in People With Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To (1) systematically review the literature on behavioral interventions for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) that aim to change physical activity (PA) behavior; and (2) explore whether these interventions are clinically effective in improving PA, are theory based, and use established behavior change techniques (BCTs). DATA SOURCES: A systematic electronic search was conducted on databases EBSCO (including AMED, Biomedical Reference Collection: Expanded, CINHAL, MEDLINE, PsycArticles, PsycInfo), PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science from April 2017 to May 2017. STUDY SELECTION: Studies were included if (1) the interventions aimed to change PA behavior among people with MS; (2) PA was recognized as a primary outcome measure; and (3) they had a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design. DATA EXTRACTION: The resulting behavioral interventions were coded using the Theory Coding Scheme and the CALO-RE taxonomy to assess theory base and BCTs. A meta-analysis was conducted to assess effectiveness. DATA SYNTHESIS: Fourteen RCTs were included. Combined, there was a significant (P=.0003; d=1.00; 95% confidence interval, .46-1.53) short-term change in self-report PA behavior for studies with nonactive control groups. There was no change in objective or long-term PA. Studies failed to discuss results in relation to theory and did not attempt to refine theory. Fifty percent of BCTs within the CALO-RE were used, with BCTs of "goal-setting" and "action-planning" being the most frequently used. CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence supports the efficacy of PA intervention on subjective but not objective outcomes. However, conclusions from this review should be interpreted with caution because of the small number of studies included and small sample size. Further, while using theory in intervention design, interventions in this review have not reported the refining of theory. Exploration of the use of additional BCTs to change PA behavior is also required within future interventions.

The ability of clinical balance measures to identify falls risk in multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the ability of clinical measures of balance to distinguish fallers from non-fallers and to determine their predictive validity in identifying those at risk of falls. DATA SOURCES: AMED, CINAHL, Medline, Scopus, PubMed Central and Google Scholar. First search: July 2015. Final search: October 2017. REVIEW METHODS: Inclusion criteria were studies of adults with a definite multiple sclerosis diagnosis, a clinical balance assessment and method of falls recording. Data were extracted independently by two reviewers. Study quality was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 scale and the modified Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. Statistical analysis was conducted for the cross-sectional studies using Review Manager 5. The mean difference with 95% confidence interval in balance outcomes between fallers and non-fallers was used as the mode of analysis. RESULTS: We included 33 studies (19 cross-sectional, 5 randomised controlled trials, 9 prospective) with a total of 3901 participants, of which 1917 (49%) were classified as fallers. The balance measures most commonly reported were the Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go and Falls Efficacy Scale International. Meta-analysis demonstrated fallers perform significantly worse than non-fallers on all measures analysed except the Timed Up and Go Cognitive ( p < 0.05), but discriminative ability of the measures is commonly not reported. Of those reported, the Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale had the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve value (0.92), but without reporting corresponding measures of clinical utility. CONCLUSION: Clinical measures of balance differ significantly between fallers and non-fallers but have poor predictive ability for falls risk in people with multiple sclerosis.

Sources of Variability in Physical Activity Among Inactive People with Multiple Sclerosis.

PURPOSE: Evidence supports that physical activity (PA) improves symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Although application of principles from Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) may facilitate positive changes in PA behaviour among people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS), the constructs often explain limited variance in PA. This study investigated the extent to which MS symptoms, including fatigue, depression, and walking limitations combined with the SCT constructs, explained more variance in PA than SCT constructs alone among pwMS. METHOD: Baseline data, including objectively assessed PA, exercise self-efficacy, goal setting, outcome expectations, 6-min walk test, fatigue and depression, from 65 participants of the Step It Up randomized controlled trial completed in Ireland (2016), were included. Multiple regression models quantified variance explained in PA and independent associations of (1) SCT constructs, (2) symptoms and (3) SCT constructs and symptoms. RESULTS: Model 1 included exercise self-efficacy, exercise goal setting and multidimensional outcomes expectations for exercise and explained ~14% of the variance in PA (R 2=0.144, p < 0.05). Model 2 included walking limitations, fatigue and depression and explained 20% of the variance in PA (R 2=0.196, p < 0.01). Model 3 combined models 1 and 2 and explained variance increased to ~29% (R 2=0.288; p<0.01). In Model 3, exercise self-efficacy (ß=0.30, p < 0.05), walking limitations (ß=0.32, p < 0.01), fatigue (ß = -0.41, p < 0.01) and depression (ß = 0.34, p < 0.05) were significantly and independently associated with PA. CONCLUSION: Findings suggest that relevant MS symptoms improved by PA, including fatigue, depression and walking limitations, and SCT constructs together explained more variance in PA than SCT constructs alone, providing support for targeting both SCT constructs and these symptoms in the multifactorial promotion of PA among pwMS.

Effect of exercising at minimum recommendations of the multiple sclerosis exercise guideline combined with structured education or attention control education - secondary results of the step it up randomised controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Recent exercise guidelines for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) recommend a minimum of 30 min moderate intensity aerobic exercise and resistance exercise twice per week. This trial compared the secondary outcomes of a combined 10-week guideline based intervention and a Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) education programme with the same exercise intervention involving an attention control education. METHODS: Physically inactive people with MS, scoring 0-3 on Patient Determined Disease Steps Scale, with no MS relapse or change in MS medication, were randomised to 10-week exercise plus SCT education or exercise plus attention control education conditions. Outcomes included fatigue, depression, anxiety, strength, physical activity, SCT constructs and impact of MS and were measured by a blinded assessor pre and post-intervention and 3 and 6 month follow up. RESULTS: One hundred and seventy-four expressed interest, 92 were eligible and 65 enrolled. Using linear mixed effects models, the differences between groups on all secondary measures post-intervention and at follow-up were not significant. Post-hoc, exploratory, within group analysis identified improvements in both groups post intervention in fatigue (mean ∆(95% CI) SCT -4.99(-9.87, -0.21), p = 0.04, Control -7.68(-12.13, -3.23), p = 0.00), strength (SCT -1.51(-2.41, -0.60), p < 0.01, Control -1.55(-2.30, -0.79), p < 0.01), physical activity (SCT 9.85(5.45, 14.23), p < 0.01, Control 12.92(4.69, 20.89), goal setting (SCT 7.30(4.19, 10.4), p < 0.01, Control 5.96(2.92, 9.01), p < 0.01) and exercise planning (SCT 5.88(3.37, 8.39), p < 0.01, Control 3.76(1.27, 6.25), p < 0.01) that were maintained above baseline at 3 and 6 month follow up (all p < 0.05). Only the SCT group improved at 3 and 6 month follow up in physical impact of MS(-4.45(-8.68, -0.22), -4.12(-8.25, 0.01), anxiety(-1.76(-3.20, -0.31), -1.99(-3.28, -0.71), depression(-1.51(-2.89, -0.13), -1.02(-2.05, 0.01)) and cognition(5.04(2.51, 7.57), 3.05(0.81, 5.28), with a medium effect for cognition and fitness (Hedges' g 0.75(0.24, 1.25), 0.51(0.01, 1.00) at 3 month follow up. CONCLUSIONS: There were no statistically significant differences between groups for the secondary outcomes once age, gender, time since diagnosis and type of MS were accounted for. However, within the SCT group only there were improvements in anxiety, depression, cognition and physical impact of MS. Exercising at the minimum guideline amount has a positive effect on fatigue, strength and PA that is sustained at 3 and 6 months following the cessation of the program. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02301442 , retrospectively registered on November 13th 2014.

Modifiable Psychosocial Constructs Associated With Physical Activity Participation in People With Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To synthesize current knowledge of the modifiable psychosocial constructs associated with physical activity (PA) participation in people with multiple sclerosis. DATA SOURCES: A search was conducted through October 2015 in 8 electronic databases: CINAHL, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Web of Knowledge, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and PsycINFO. STUDY SELECTION: Cohort and intervention studies were included if they (1) included an objective or subjective measure of PA; (2) measured at least 1 modifiable psychosocial construct; and (3) reported bivariate correlations (or these could be extracted) between the PA and psychosocial construct measures. A total of 13,867 articles were screened for inclusion, and 26 were included in the final analysis. DATA EXTRACTION: Meta-analyses of correlations were conducted using the Hedges-Olkin method. Where a meta-analysis was not possible, results were reported descriptively. DATA SYNTHESIS: Meta-analyses indicated a pooled correlation coefficient between (1) objective PA and self-efficacy (n=7) of r=.30 (P<.0001), indicating a moderate, positive association; (2) subjective PA and self-efficacy (n=7) of r=.34 (P<.0001), indicating a moderate, positive association; (3) subjective PA and goal-setting (n=5) of r=.44 (P<.0001), indicating a moderate-to-large positive association; and 4) subjective PA and outcome expectancies (n=4) (physical: r=.13, P=.11; social: r=.19, P<.0001; self-evaluative: r=.27, P<.0001), indicating small-moderate positive associations. Other constructs such as measures of health beliefs, enjoyment, social support, and perceived benefits and barriers were reported to be significantly correlated with PA in individual studies, but the number of studies was not sufficient for a meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Future PA interventions should continue to focus on the psychosocial constructs of self-efficacy and goal-setting. However, there is a need to explore the associations between other constructs outside those reported in this review.

Comparing the effects of whole-body vibration to standard exercise in ambulatory people with Multiple Sclerosis: a randomised controlled feasibility study.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed firstly to investigate the feasibility of the study protocol and outcome measures, secondly to obtain data in order to inform the power calculations for a larger randomised controlled trial, and finally to investigate if whole-body vibration (WBV) is more effective than the same duration and intensity of standard exercises (EXE) in people with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS). DESIGN: Randomised controlled feasibility study. SETTING: Outpatient MS centre. SUBJECTS: Twenty seven PwMS (age mean (SD) 48.1 (11.2)) with minimal gait impairments. INTERVENTIONS: Twelve weeks of WBV or standard EXE, three times weekly. MAIN MEASURES: Participants were measured with isokinetic muscle strength, vibration threshold, Timed Up and Go test (TUG), Mini-BESTest (MBT), 6 Minute Walk test (6MWT), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale 29 (MSIS 29), Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS) and Verbal Analogue scale for sensation (VAS) pre and post 12 week intervention. RESULTS: WBV intervention was found feasible with low drop-out rate (11.1%) and high compliance (90%). Data suggest that a sample of 52 in each group would be sufficient to detect a moderate effect size, with 80% power and 5% significance for 6 minute walk test. Large effect sizes in favour of standard exercise were found for vibration threshold at 5th metatarsophalangeal joint and heel (P=0.014, r= 0.5 and P=0.005, r=0.56 respectively). No between group differences were found for muscle strength, balance or gait (P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Data suggest that the protocol is feasible, there were no adverse effects. A trial including 120 people would be needed to detect an effect on walking endurance.

Pilot randomized trial of progressive resistance exercise augmented by neuromuscular electrical stimulation for people with multiple sclerosis who use walking aids.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the feasibility and preliminary outcomes of a home progressive resistance training (PRT) program augmented by neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES). DESIGN: Randomized controlled pilot trial. SETTING: Participant homes. PARTICIPANTS: People with multiple sclerosis (MS) (N=37) who use a walking aid. INTERVENTIONS: A 12-week home PRT program or the same program augmented by NMES. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Strength using hand-held dynamometry; repeated sit to stand test; Berg Balance Scale; timed Up & Go test; 12-Item Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale; Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale-29, version 2; and Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS). The NMES group also completed a device usability questionnaire. RESULTS: Only change in MFIS score was significantly greater in the NMES group than the PRT group (P=.012). The NMES group improved significantly in quadriceps endurance (median of change, 8.5; P=.043), balance (median of change, 3.5; P=.001), physical impact of MS (median of change, -8.3; P=.001), and impact of fatigue (median of change, -17; P=.001). Participants rated the device as highly usable. CONCLUSIONS: This pilot study suggests that a home PRT program with NMES is feasible, and the neuromuscular electrical stimulation device is usable by this population. Only reduction in impact of fatigue was greater in the NMES than the PRT group.

Core outcome measures for exercise studies in people with multiple sclerosis: recommendations from a multidisciplinary consensus meeting.

Evidence shows that exercise is beneficial for people with multiple sclerosis (MS); however, statistical pooling of data is difficult because of the diversity of outcome measures used. The objective of this review is to report the recommendations of an International Consensus Meeting for a core set of outcome measures for use in exercise studies in MS. From the 100 categories of the International Classification of Function Core Sets for MS, 57 categories were considered as likely/potentially likely to be affected by exercise and were clustered into seven core groups. Outcome measures to address each group were evaluated regarding, for example, psychometric properties. The following are recommended: Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS) or Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) for energy and drive, 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) for exercise tolerance, Timed Up and Go (TUG) for muscle function and moving around, Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29) or Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 Instrument (MSQoL54) for quality of life and body mass index (BMI) or waist-hip ratio (WHR) for the health risks associated with excess body fat. A cost effectiveness analysis and qualitative evaluation should be included where possible. Using these core measures ensures that future meta-analyses of exercise studies in MS are more robust and thus more effectively inform practice.