Physical activity and self-reported sleep quality in adults with multiple sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Sleep Medicine
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Sleep problems are four times more common in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients compared to the general population.
• Understanding factors influencing sleep quality in MS is crucial for improving patient well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between sedentary behavior, physical activity levels, and perceived sleep quality in adults with MS.
• To identify specific physical activity metrics associated with better sleep quality in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 290 adults with MS.
• Objective measurement of sedentary behavior, light physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) using accelerometers over seven days.
• Assessment of perceived sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and statistical analysis (multiple linear regression).

Main Results:

• Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was significantly and independently associated with better perceived sleep quality (lower PSQI scores).
• The study model explained 2% of the variance in global PSQI scores.
• No significant associations were found between sedentary behavior, LPA, and overall sleep quality.

Conclusions:

• Increased time spent in MVPA may contribute to improved sleep quality in adults with MS.
• Adults with MS currently do not meet recommended physical activity guidelines.
• Further research using longitudinal designs and interventions is recommended to confirm these findings and explore physical activity's role in enhancing sleep quality in MS.