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Adapted Resistance Training Improves Strength in Eight Weeks in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: January 29, 2016
Implementing Co-innovation to Develop an Accessible, Web-Based Exercise Program for People with Multiple Sclerosis
T Bradley Willingham1, Julie F Stowell1, Marina Moldavskiy1
1Virginia C. Crawford Research Institute, Shepherd Center, Atlanta, GA.
Summary
A co-designed web-based exercise program for multiple sclerosis (MS) showed promise, with participants reporting high usability and improved mobility. This patient-centered approach addresses diverse needs for effective remote rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Science
- Digital Health
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Developing effective, patient-centered exercise programs for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) is crucial for managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
- Web-based interventions offer a scalable solution for delivering exercise programs remotely, enhancing accessibility for people with MS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To apply a patient-centered co-innovation framework to develop and preliminarily evaluate a web-based exercise program tailored for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS).
- To identify patient needs and preferences to inform the design of a safe, feasible, and user-friendly tele-exercise program.
Main Methods:
- An exploratory sequential mixed-methods study involving focus groups (n=16) to gather needs and preferences, followed by a 6-week pilot intervention (n=15) of a web-based exercise program.
- The tele-exercise program included 3 weekly sessions of aerobic and resistance exercises with modifications, plus weekly virtual coaching.
- Outcomes included user experience, adherence, safety (adverse events), and mobility measures (6MWT, 5xSTS, TUG, T25FW).
Main Results:
- Focus groups yielded actionable insights into exercise type, instruction, safety, modifications, and delivery preferences, directly shaping the program.
- No adverse events were reported during the pilot. Adherence averaged 75% in Wave 1 and 56% in Wave 2, with higher rates among those completing at least one session.
- Significant improvements were observed in 6-Minute Walk Test (+20.4%), Five Times Sit to Stand (-16.6%), and Timed Up and Go (-14.9%). User experience ratings indicated high usability and convenience.
Conclusions:
- Patient-centered co-innovation effectively informs the development of evidence-aligned, web-based exercise programs for people with MS, addressing their complex needs.
- The developed program is safe, feasible, and enhances user experience, supporting further evaluation in larger, diverse populations.
- Future research should explore social support features to further enhance engagement in remote exercise interventions for MS.
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