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Program Evaluation Results of a Structured Group Exercise Program in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Program Evaluation Results of a Structured Group Exercise Program in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis

Mary E Charlton, Kelley Pettee Gabriel, Terry Munsinger, Lorene Schmaderer and Kathleen M Healey
International journal of MS care, Vol.12(2), pp.92-96
01/01/2010
DOI: 10.7224/1537-2073-12.2.92
url
https://doi.org/10.7224/1537-2073-12.2.92View
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

Although research-based and anecdotal evidence support the beneficial role of physical activity in symptom management among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS), the integration of physical activity into the lifestyles of people with disabilities remains a challenge. The purposes of this study were to evaluate the feasibility and perceived effectiveness of a group Jazzercise program that was modified to fit the needs of individuals with MS. The study population included patients diagnosed with definite MS who were receiving care at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Eleven of 14 initial participants remained in the program after 16 weeks and were mailed a short anonymous questionnaire designed to assess self-reported improvement in balance, confidence, coordination, energy, flexibility, mood, and strength, and to determine satisfaction and motivation to continue the course. Nine of the 11 participants (82%) at week 16 returned the survey. Of the nine respondents, all (100%) reported improvements in mood and energy, seven (77.8%) reported improvements in confidence, six (66.7%) reported improvements in flexibility and strength, and five (55.6%) reported improvements in balance and coordination. All nine respondents indicated that they enjoyed the class and were motivated to continue the program. The results provide justification for continued evaluation of this unique structured group exercise program in individuals with MS. A larger sample size and a more rigorous study design are needed to further examine the impact of the program on physiologic and psychosocial factors in individuals with MS.

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