Perceptions of Newly Diagnosed Persons with Multiple Sclerosis on Exercise and Physical Activity – a Qualitative Study

Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease marked by declines in walking and balance. Individuals with MS commonly receive rehabilitation services throughout their disease course, but rarely after initial diagnosis.

Objectives: The purpose of this qualitative study is to understand the perspectives of persons newly diagnosed with MS on exercise and physical activity.

Methods: Three focus groups were conducted with persons with MS (n=8) who had been diagnosed within the past 5 years. Participants were asked open-ended questions related to barriers and facilitators of exercise, knowledge of exercise that would be helpful to receive at diagnosis, and how persons with MS prefer to receive exercise information. All focus groups were recorded and transcriptions were analyzed using combined deductive and inductive coding and validated through researcher triangulation. Concepts were categorized according to emerging themes and findings were verified by participants.

Results: The major themes identified included knowledge and literacy, perceptions of exercise, barriers to exercise and physical activity, and strategies to overcome barriers and engage in exercise and physical activity.

Conclusions: Results from this study will directly inform the adaptation of a physical activity coaching program for newly diagnosed individuals with MS.