Rehabilitative targets to increase physical activity in patients with multiple sclerosis
Date
2016
Authors
Ketelhut, Nathaniel B., author
Rudroff, Thorsten, advisor
Tracy, Brian, committee member
Reiser, Raoul, committee member
Burzynska, Aga, committee member
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Abstract
Background: Physical activity has been shown to have positive effects on the disease symptoms of multiple sclerosis. However, patients with multiple sclerosis are less active than their healthy counterparts. Previous studies of the predictors of physical activity in this patient population have been limited in their translation to the rehabilitative setting. Objective: To identify behavioral and functional predictors of physical activity in patients with multiple sclerosis to provide targets for rehabilitative specialists. Methods: A total of 16 behavioral and functional tests were conducted and physical activity was objectively measured for one week. A stepwise multiple regression analysis was performed to identify the strongest predictors of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and total activity/day. Results: The stepwise procedure converged on a model for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (R2=0.35, P=0.001) that included total leg strength of the less-affected side (partial r=0.42, P=0.016) and Falls Efficacy Scale-International score (partial r=-0.37, P=0.033). The model for total activity (R2=0.41, P<0.001) included five-times sit-to-stand performance (partial r=-0.42, P=0.014) and total leg strength of the less-affected side (partial r=0.35, P=0.049). Conclusion: Rehabilitative specialists aiming to improve physical activity in patients with multiple sclerosis should implement exercise programs that combine balance and strength training of the legs.