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Motivational interviewing may improve exercise experience for people with multiple sclerosis: A small randomized
Douglas C Smith1, Deirdre Lanesskog, Leah Cleeland
1School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA. smithdc@uiuc.edu
Health & Social Work
|October 4, 2012
Summary
Motivational interviewing (MI) shows promise for improving exercise experience in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, enhancing physical exertion and mood. However, it did not significantly impact adherence to exercise programs in this small study.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Physical inactivity is prevalent in multiple sclerosis (MS) populations.
- Regular exercise offers significant benefits for individuals with MS.
- Barriers to exercise adherence in MS require targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of motivational interviewing (MI) on exercise adherence and personal experience in people with MS.
- To assess the feasibility of using MI within an 8-week exercise program for MS patients.
Main Methods:
- A small randomized study involving inactive individuals with MS.
- Participants were assigned to either motivational interviewing (MI) or health coaching sessions.
- Motivational interviewing treatment integrity was rigorously measured.
Main Results:
- High session attendance was observed in both MI and health coaching groups.
- Significant positive effects favoring MI were noted for physical exertion, affect during exercise, and fatigue.
- No significant differences in adherence to the exercise program were found between the groups.
Conclusions:
- Motivational interviewing (MI) appears feasible for improving the subjective exercise experience in people with MS.
- While promising, the observed large effect sizes require replication in larger, adequately powered studies with objective adherence measures.
