Mindfulness of movement as a coping strategy in multiple sclerosis. A pilot study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Mind-Body Medicine

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease impacting symptom management.
• Effective interventions for MS symptom relief are crucial for improving patient quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of a brief mindfulness of movement (MoM) intervention for symptom management in individuals with multiple sclerosis.
• To compare the outcomes of MoM training against a control group receiving standard care.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involving eight participants with MS undergoing a six-session MoM course.
• Intervention included one-to-one instruction and audio-visual aids.
• Assessments included balance tests and a 22-symptom rating scale, with independent verification by a relative/friend, conducted pre-, post-intervention, and at 3-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• The MoM group reported significant improvements across a wide range of MS symptoms.
• These improvements were corroborated by independent ratings and maintained at 3-month follow-up.
• The MoM group demonstrated significant improvements in balance, which were also sustained.
• The control group showed no improvement and a tendency towards symptom deterioration.

Conclusions:

• Mindfulness of movement training shows promise as an effective intervention for improving symptom management and balance in people with multiple sclerosis.
• This pilot study suggests MoM may offer a valuable therapeutic approach for MS.
• Further research with larger sample sizes is recommended to confirm these findings and explore specific therapeutic components.