Relationship Between Physical Activity Domains by Level and Illness Intrusiveness in Individuals With Multiple...

Area of Science:

• Neurology and Rehabilitation Science
• Health Psychology
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) significantly impacts daily life, often leading to increased illness intrusiveness.
• Understanding the relationship between physical activity and illness intrusiveness is crucial for managing MS.
• Disability is a key factor that may mediate the effects of physical activity on illness intrusiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the associations between various levels and domains of physical activity and illness intrusiveness in individuals with MS.
• To examine the mediating role of disability in the relationship between physical activity and illness intrusiveness.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 183 participants with MS.
• Physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Long Form.
• Illness intrusiveness and disability were measured using the Illness Intrusiveness Rating Scale and Patient-Determined Disease Steps, respectively.

Main Results:

• Higher vigorous physical activity (especially recreational) and walking at work were directly associated with lower illness intrusiveness.
• Increased overall walking (recreational) and moderate physical activity reduced illness intrusiveness by affecting disability.
• Sedentary behavior (sitting) was indirectly linked to greater illness intrusiveness via disability.

Conclusions:

• Physical activity, particularly vigorous and recreational walking, shows a direct inverse relationship with illness intrusiveness in MS.
• Disability plays a mediating role in how physical activity impacts illness intrusiveness.
• These findings can inform the development of targeted interventions to improve well-being in people with MS.