A qualitative exploration of the impact of a 12-week group exercise class for those moderately affected with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Purpose: The evidence base to support therapeutic exercise for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) is improving; however few studies have considered the patients’ perspective. This study aimed to explore the experiences and views of people moderately affected with MS following participation in a 12-week exercise programme. Method: Twenty people with MS participated in a group exercise class. Subsequently, four men and ten women took part in one of two focus groups. Semi-structured questions were used to elicit participants’ views on the exercise class, outcomes from exercise and the exercise class and any perceived facilitators or barriers to exercise. Data were analysed using a general inductive method. Results: Benefits to participating in exercise for those with MS included social support and symptom improvement. Psychosocial factors, symptoms and lack of service emerged as exercise barriers. Three inter-related themes emerged; (1) The exercise class developed as a bridge to allow participants to realise, (2) the benefits of the class, helping them to overcome and (3) barriers to exercise. Conclusion: Taking part in an exercise class was a positive experience for people with MS. Healthcare professionals should work with exercise professionals to provide feasible exercise opportunities to help those with MS benefit from therapeutic exercise.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• People moderately affected with multiple sclerosis (MS) feel group exercise offers symptom improvement and social benefits.

• MS-related symptoms and a lack of service options may prevent those with MS exercising.

• Physiotherapists should work alongside exercise professionals to establish exercise services for those with MS.

Keywords::

• Exercise
• multiple sclerosis
• physical activity

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank F. Moffat, who acted as the moderator during the focus groups, staff from East Ayrshire Leisure services (Community Health Improvement Partnership) and KA Leisure for allowing use of their staff and facilities and the participants themselves for their patience and interest.

Declaration of Interest: This study was part of the Bevan PhD studentship whose funding is managed by the Multiple Sclerosis Managed Clinical Network at NHS Ayrshire and Arran. Work undertaken as part of this study is included in a PhD thesis submitted to the University of Glasgow in 2012.