Within Daily Analysis Of Physical Activity Behaviour In Adults With Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Little is known about the dynamic association between activity pacing and actual physical activity behaviour within the daily routines of persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). Understanding the association between activity pacing and actual physical activity behaviour is relevant to help optimise health promoting behaviour. PURPOSE: To explore how activity pacing relates to actual physical activity behaviours in adults with MS. METHODS: 21 persons with MS (mean age= 59 ± 9 years) wore an accelerometer for 7 days to assess physical activity behaviours and filled in questionnaires on their engagement in pacing and perceived risk of overactivity (5-point Activity Pacing and Risk of Overactivity Questionnaire), fatigue (7-point Fatigue Severity Scale), and Health-related quality of life (RAND-12). Physical activity behaviours were assessed by examining activity level (7-day average activity counts per minute) and activity variability (7-day average highest activity counts per minute each day divided by activity counts per minute on that day). The relationships between the variables were examined using hierarchical regression models. RESULTS: Engagement in pacing, perceived risk of overactivity, activity level and variability were 2.25 ± .74, 2.38 ± 1.02, 241.07 (144.68) and 3.96 ± .72 respectively. Lower activity level was related to higher engagement in pacing (β = -.438, t = -2.66, p =.024). Higher activity level was associated with higher perceived risk of overactivity (β = .494, t = 2.84, p = .018). No relations were found between activity variability and engagement in pacing (β = -.225, t = -.96, p = .361) and between activity variability and perceived risk of overactivity (β = .149, t = .599, p = .562). CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that those with lower activity levels may experience worsening symptoms with respect to physical disability, and may be more inclined and aware to pace their activities. Conversely, those with higher activity levels may experience less disruption through fatigue in daily life and may resort to the execution of too long periods of activity which may cause overactivity. Guidance on optimal use of pacing may be beneficial for persons with MS and improve their physical activity behaviour.