Physical Activity Behavior in Individuals With Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

This study compared the physical activity levels of individuals with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) with those of people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Symptoms, walking ability, and self-efficacy were examined as explanations for the possible difference in physical activity, after controlling for age and time since MS onset. The sample included 41 individuals with SPMS and 82 with RRMS who completed a demographics scale and self-reported measures of physical activity, self-efficacy, symptoms, and walking ability. Individuals with SPMS were older, had a longer time since MS onset, and reported less physical activity and self-efficacy and more frequent symptoms and problems with walking than those with RRMS. Self-efficacy and walking ability accounted for the difference in physical activity between the groups, and self-efficacy was the strongest correlate of physical activity in the SPMS sample. Future researchers should consider developing and testing interventions that target self-efficacy as a modifiable factor within the exercise environment to increase physical activity in people with SPMS.