Exercise Training in Multiple Sclerosis: Preparing for Dissemination and Implementation Based on Integrating the NIH...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Exercise training is beneficial for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.
• Low participation rates in recommended exercise programs hinder patient outcomes.
• Challenges exist in translating exercise research into widespread clinical practice for MS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the low participation in exercise training for individuals with MS.
• To propose the use of dissemination and implementation (D&I) science to overcome research-to-practice gaps.
• To guide future research by highlighting D&I methodological considerations.

Main Methods:

• Framing the literature on exercise training in MS using the NIH Stage Model of Intervention Development.
• Reviewing and synthesizing existing research on exercise interventions for MS.
• Identifying key methodological considerations within D&I science relevant to MS research.

Main Results:

• Exercise interventions for MS are safe and effective but face significant barriers to implementation.
• D&I science offers a framework to address the gap between research findings and real-world application.
• Specific methodological considerations in D&I are crucial for advancing exercise research in MS.

Conclusions:

• A shift towards real-world effectiveness and implementation research is critical for exercise training in MS.
• Adopting D&I science principles can improve the translation of exercise benefits to a broader MS population.
• Future research should prioritize implementation strategies to increase exercise participation and its benefits for individuals with MS.