The perceived benefits and barriers to physical activity in people with multiple sclerosis in Malta

Abstract

People with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS) encounter various benefits and barriers which affect physical activity (PA) levels. This study aims to identify perceived benefits (PBen) and barriers (PBar) to PA by PwMS in Malta via the use of the exercise benefits/barriers scale (EBBS). The study also aims to investigate whether PBen and PBar in PwMS of different mobility levels are significantly different. 42 PwMS were recruited through the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society of Malta and from the Neurological Rehabilitation Physiotherapy Outpatients Department, St. Luke’s Hospital, Rehabilitation Hospital Karen Grech. Participants completed an EBBS questionnaire. EBBS scores and scores for each EBBS category were calculated. Reverse-scoring was used to calculate the EBBS barrier score and scores related to the EBBS barrier subscale. SPSS version 22 and Microsoft Office Excel (2007) were used to analyse the results of the 40 questionnaires returned and the main PBen and PBar were identified. The highest rated PBen was in the physical performance category, obtaining a mean score of 3.53 out of a maximum possible score of 4.00. The highest rated PBar was in the physical exertion category, obtaining a mean score of 2.00 out of a maximum possible score of 4.00. Differences between PBen and PBar identified by PwMS of different mobility levels were found to be significant. Results were similar to those obtained in previous studies in which PBen and PBar to PA by PwMS were investigated. Future studies to further explore perceptions to PA are warranted to further aid in increasing PA levels.