Informing the design of exercise programs for persons with multiple sclerosis who use wheelchairs: a qualitative inquiry of perceived components

Abstract

Purpose

We investigated the perceptions of persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) who use wheelchairs regarding preferences for the design of exercise programs.

Materials and methods

We conducted online, semi-structured interviews with 20 persons with MS who use wheelchairs regarding preferences for exercise programs. We identified perceived necessary and desired components of exercise programs through deductive content analysis.

Results

Participants articulated preferences for “what”, “when”, “where”, and “who” of exercise programs for persons with MS who use wheelchairs. The majority of participants expressed an interest in aerobic and strength training, possibly supported by rehabilitation therapies (what). The frequency was 2–7 times per week with a duration of 15–30 minutes (when). The locations included home-, Internet-, or community-based exercise (where), supported through autonomous, one-on-one, and group delivery (who).

Conclusions

Persons with MS who use wheelchairs were interested in exercise, but need resources for engagement in regular exercise programs that yield meaningful health benefits. This study provided guidance for creating personalized, structured exercise programs for persons with MS who use wheelchairs that may improve overall wellness, independence, and quality of life.

Implications for rehabilitation

• Exercise training programs often do not account for the unique needs and wants of persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) who use a wheelchair.

• Personalized, structured exercise programs for persons with MS who use wheelchairs may improve outcomes including independence and quality of life.

• The proposed exercise guidelines provide initial guidance for persons with MS who use wheelchairs regarding engagement in exercise for improving MS symptoms and quality of life.

Keywords:

• Wheelchair
• multiple sclerosis
• exercise
• qualitative
• content analysis

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest.

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, SLS, upon reasonable request.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported through a training grant from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (MB 0029).