The intention to exercise and the execution of exercise among persons with multiple sclerosis – a qualitative metasynthesis

Abstract

Purpose: This review was designed as a qualitative metasynthesis aiming to identify factors influencing the intention to exercise and the execution of exercise among persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Method: Based on principles laid out by Sandelowski and Barroso, this qualitative metasynthesis started with a systematic literature search for studies of PwMS’s experiences relating to exercise in the following databases: CINAHL, Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine Source, PubMed, Web of Science and Psychology & Behavioral Science. The metasynthesis procedure also included critical appraisal using the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist, and integrating synthesis of the articles’ findings. Results: The metasynthesis included nine articles. Factors identified as influencing intention to exercise and the execution of exercise included social support, professional support and outcome expectations. Strong relationships between these three themes were detected for the intention to exercise, the execution of exercise or both among PwMS. Conclusions: The present metasynthesis offers a comprehensive understanding of factors influencing the intention to exercise and the execution of exercise among PwMS. Our findings reveal that health professionals influence the part of the process where PwMS enter the exercise setting, as well as the PwMS’s intention to exercise.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• Social support, professional support and outcome expectations are potential facilitators and barriers for the intention to exercise and the execution of exercise among PwMS.

• Health professionals specializing in MS rehabilitation can influence the intention and the execution of physical exercise among PwMS when there exists a personal and supportive patient–professional relationship.

• Outcome expectations may impact the motivational and volitional phases of physical exercise.

Keywords:

• Chronic illness
• exercise execution
• motivation multiple sclerosis
• physiotherapy

Acknowledgements

The authors thank their colleagues in Department of Research in Rehabilitation and Health Promotion for their supportive and constructive input and guidance during the design and implementation of this project.

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest and have no funding sources to disclose. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.