Exercise may improve quality of life for newly diagnosed

A new study has found physical activity is significantly associated with improved quality of life for people newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Researchers in the US decided to look at newly diagnosed patients because although there is a lot of research that indicates exercise is very good for people with MS symptoms, little has been done on people close to diagnosis at a less advanced stage.

They examined data from 152 patients who were recruited between October 2020 and November 2021 who were diagnosed within the past two years. The average age was 41 and the majority were women.

The participants reported their activity levels, as well as completing a questionnaire measuring the physical and psychological components of life quality.

There was a significant association between physical activity and the physical element of quality of life. They did not find a link between physical activity and the mental element of life quality, though activity was negatively associated with mood, fatigue, and other co-existing conditions.

The findings indicate that physical activity “might be an important modifiable behaviour worth promoting in persons newly diagnosed with MS to enhance quality of life in early-stage MS,” the researchers wrote.

MS-UK offer online activity classes within our portal. From chair yoga to general activities to keep you moving, we’re sure that any MSer will feel the benefits of being more active.