Feasibility, Outcomes, and Perceptions of a Virtual Group Exercise Program in Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) frequently report low physical activity and psychosocial support due to concerns with transportation, time, finances, access to services, and lack of caregiver support. These barriers can be addressed by online group interventions; however, utility of such programs in individuals with MS has not been examined yet. The purpose of this retrospective study was, therefore, to (a) investigate the feasibility, safety, and outcomes of a virtual group exercise program in individuals with MS, and (b) explore the participant perceptions after the program. Methods: Retrospective data from the medical records of 17 individuals with MS (mean [SD] age = 53.5 [12.3] years, body mass index = 28.2 [7.2]) who completed the virtual 13-week group exercise program, pre- and posttraining functional status questionnaires, and the end-of-program feedback were extracted. The exercise program included aerobic, resistance, balance, and flexibility training components recommended for people with MS. Feasibility, safety, outcomes, and participant perceptions were determined by adherence to the prescribed daily exercise dosage, number of adverse events, within-group differences in self-reported functional status, and thematic analysis of the participant feedback, respectively. Results: Participants were adherent (79%), reported minimal adverse effects, and demonstrated significant changes (P < 0.05) in functional status posttraining. Several themes on the perceived barriers, facilitators, and suggestions for improvement were identified. Discussion and Conclusions: A virtual 13-week group exercise program can be feasible, safe, effective, and well received by individuals with MS. Future research should investigate the dose-response effectiveness of telehealth and compare various telehealth models of exercise training using large randomized controlled trials. Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1 available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A434, which demonstrates an overview of the study).