"Outwalk MS" - Benefits of Outdoor Walking in Multiple Sclerosis

"Outwalk MS" - Benefits of Outdoor Walking Exercise Therapy on Walking Capacity and Well-being in Multiple Sclerosis

Deterioration of walking capacity is a common symptom in persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS), furthermore having a negative influence on well-being. Studies have nevertheless shown that walking exercise therapy can improve walking capacity in pwMS. This may be particularly potent if occurring outdoors due to the varying stimuli it can provide (different surfaces and terrain etc.), and if the intensity and duration is adequate. Furthermore, outdoor walking is (1) suitable as a group intervention facilitating interaction between pwMS and (2) advantageous due to the health benefits offered through the interaction with nature itself. Both these aspects are also relevant for well-being.

Few studies have nevertheless examined the effects of outdoor walking exercise therapy in pwMS. The purpose of the present study is therefore to examine the effects of 7 weeks of moderate-to-high intensity outdoor walking exercise therapy on walking capacity (primary outcome: 6-minute walk test) and well-being in pwMS.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ≥ 18 years
• self-reported clinical MS diagnosis
• PDDS ≤ 4 (corresponding to preserved walking capacity without assistive devices of at least 10 m)
• able to independently attend the testing

Exclusion Criteria:

• self-reported comorbidities excluding participation in the intervention
• recent (6 months retrospective) fractures, amputation or other critical physical impairments that eliminates participation in the described training study
• participation in structured exercise therapy (including walking) for the past 3 months (≥ 2 session per week of moderate-to-high intensity)