Presenter Information

Meagan KehoeFollow

Start Date

22-3-2019 10:00 AM

End Date

22-3-2019 11:30 AM

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive disease that often leads to disability. There is currently no cure for MS and treatment includes disease modifying therapies and symptom management strategies. Research suggests that physical activity can improve many of the symptoms associated with MS. Further research on the overall impact of physical activity in this population, as well as, which physical activity interventions produce the greatest impact is needed.

Objectives: The purpose of this integrative literature review is to explore previous research on the impact of physical activity on quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis. As well as, which physical activity interventions have the greatest impact.

Methods: This integrative literature review used Garrard’s matrix method to organize and evaluate the data.

Results: Common physical activity interventions are grouped into three categories: aerobic exercise, yoga/balance, and resistance/strength. All types of interventions were well tolerated and effective at reducing symptoms of MS, like fatigue. Aerobic exercise interventions and yoga/balance interventions resulted improved quality of life, while resistance/strength training was inconclusive.

Conclusion: Previous research indicates that physical activity is well tolerated, and some types do improve quality of life in patients with MS. Physical activity should be integrated into the standard of care for individuals living with MS and the type of physical activity intervention should be tailored to the individual’s ability level and most challenging symptoms.

Keywords: multiple sclerosis, quality of life, exercise, physical activity, aerobic activity.

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Mar 22nd, 10:00 AM Mar 22nd, 11:30 AM

The Impact of Physical Activity on Quality of Life in People Living with Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive disease that often leads to disability. There is currently no cure for MS and treatment includes disease modifying therapies and symptom management strategies. Research suggests that physical activity can improve many of the symptoms associated with MS. Further research on the overall impact of physical activity in this population, as well as, which physical activity interventions produce the greatest impact is needed.

Objectives: The purpose of this integrative literature review is to explore previous research on the impact of physical activity on quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis. As well as, which physical activity interventions have the greatest impact.

Methods: This integrative literature review used Garrard’s matrix method to organize and evaluate the data.

Results: Common physical activity interventions are grouped into three categories: aerobic exercise, yoga/balance, and resistance/strength. All types of interventions were well tolerated and effective at reducing symptoms of MS, like fatigue. Aerobic exercise interventions and yoga/balance interventions resulted improved quality of life, while resistance/strength training was inconclusive.

Conclusion: Previous research indicates that physical activity is well tolerated, and some types do improve quality of life in patients with MS. Physical activity should be integrated into the standard of care for individuals living with MS and the type of physical activity intervention should be tailored to the individual’s ability level and most challenging symptoms.

Keywords: multiple sclerosis, quality of life, exercise, physical activity, aerobic activity.