The lived experiences of people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in relation to exercise

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the lived experiences of people diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Seven active exercisers with MS participated in semi-structured interviews regarding their exercise experiences since diagnosis. Data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA; Smith & Osborn, 2003). Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. The results and interpretations of narratives revealed a number of functional limitations due to the severity of MS symptoms, which were found to have a major effect on the ability of the participants to exercise. Furthermore, psychological problems and the heightened behavioural adjustments to the progressive disability led to re-appraisal of ability to exercise. Previous, relevant exercise experience made participants more determined to continue to be able to exercise after diagnosis. The wider exercise experience narratives were related to concerns about safety, dependability on others to overcome the challenges, and potential environmental hazards. The loss of spontaneous opportunities to exercise because of these actual and perceived barriers was key to this population. This research highlighted the need to rethink the health and social service arrangements in relation to exercise provision for individuals with MS.

Keywords:

• Exercise
• multiple sclerosis
• Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
• functional limitations
• barriers to exercise

Acknowledgements

The authors express their gratitude to Joy Fisher for her help and support in gaining access to MS patients and throughout the research project. We would also like to thank Terry O’Donnell, Dr Peter Bramham, and Professor Jonathan Long for their helpful suggestions during the drafting of this article.