A qualitative exploration of the impact of a 12-week group exercise class for those moderately affected with multiple sclerosis

作者：Learmonth Y C^*; Marshall McKenna R; Paul L; Mattison P; Miller L

来源：Disability and Rehabilitation, 2013, 35(1): 81-88.

DOI：10.3109/09638288.2012.688922

• Exercise
• multiple sclerosis
• physical activity

Purpose: The evidence base to support therapeutic exercise for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) is improving; however few studies have considered the patients%26apos; perspective. This study aimed to explore the experiences and views of people moderately affected with MS following participation in a 12-week exercise programme. Method: Twenty people with MS participated in a group exercise class. Subsequently, four men and ten women took part in one of two focus groups. Semi-structured questions were used to elicit participants%26apos; views on the exercise class, outcomes from exercise and the exercise class and any perceived facilitators or barriers to exercise. Data were analysed using a general inductive method. Results: Benefits to participating in exercise for those with MS included social support and symptom improvement. Psychosocial factors, symptoms and lack of service emerged as exercise barriers. Three inter-related themes emerged; (1) The exercise class developed as a bridge to allow participants to realise, (2) the benefits of the class, helping them to overcome and (3) barriers to exercise. Conclusion: Taking part in an exercise class was a positive experience for people with MS. Healthcare professionals should work with exercise professionals to provide feasible exercise opportunities to help those with MS benefit from therapeutic exercise.

• 出版日期2013