A qualitative study of low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction in people with advanced multiple sclerosis

ABSTRACT

Background

Blood flow restriction (BFR) combined with low-load resistance training could minimize exercise barriers and offer strength and mobility improvements for people with advanced Multiple Sclerosis (MS); but patient experience has not been evaluated.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the satisfaction, acceptability, and impact of combining low-load resistance training with BFR for individuals with advanced MS (Expanded Disability Status Scale: EDSS 6.0–7.0).

Methods

We used an interpretive phenomenological research design and post-intervention interviews to explore participant experiences of a novel low-load resistance training program with BFR.

Results

Interview participants (n = 14) were 55.4 ± 6.2 years old and were diagnosed with MS for 19.1 ± 10.7 years. Four themes were identified (satisfaction, acceptability, impact, program refinement) with 14 subthemes. Satisfaction was mixed based on overall expectations, yet all participants recommended the intervention. Acceptability was evidenced by all participants identifying comfortable/easy aspects, and modifiable elements that could improve comfort. Impact was evidenced with translation to everyday life activities, strength/self-efficacy/psychological improvements, effectiveness, and fatigue reduction.

Conclusions

Participants found BFR combined with low-load resistance training to be satisfactory (mixed initial expectations), acceptable (comfortable/easy), and impactful (translating to life improvements). Areas for program refinement were identified that should be targeted in future iterations.

KEYWORDS:

• Blood flow restriction
• satisfaction
• acceptability
• impact
• multiple sclerosis
• qualitative
• participant input

Disclosure statement

The authors have no conflicts of interest to report. Some authors are employed through the Veterans Health Administration. The contents of this manuscript are the authors’ sole responsibility and do not necessarily represent the views of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or the United States Government.

Supplementary material

Supplemental data for this article can be accessed online at https://doi.org/10.1080/09593985.2024.2341993

Additional information

Funding

This study was funded by the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers Pilot Award Program; National Center Medical Rehabilitation Research, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, and National Institute Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health [K12 HD055931]; and Colorado Clinical & Translational Science Institute [NIH/NCATS UL1-TR001082, TL1-TR002535].