Research: pre-MS physical activity predicts disease progression

EpubMotl et al. Premorbid physical activity predicts disability progression in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. J Neurol Sci. 2012 Sep 15. pii: S0022-510X(12)00485-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jns.2012.08.033

BACKGROUND: Disability progression is a hallmark feature of MS that has been predicted by a variety of demographic and clinical variables and treatment with disease modifying therapies. This study examined premorbid physical activity as a predictor of change in disability over 24months in RRMSers

METHODS: 269 RRMSers completed baseline measures of demographic and clinical variables, premorbid and current physical activity, and disability status. The measure of disability was further completed every 6 months over the subsequent 24-month period.

RESULTS: There was a significant, linear increase in disability scores over time (p=.0015). Physical activity before disease onset significantly predicted the linear change in disability scores (standardized β=-.23, p<.005); current physical activity (standardized β=-.02, p=.81), gender (standardized β=-.06, p=.54), age (standardized β=.05, p=.56), duration of MS (standardized β=.11, p=.15), and treatment with disease modifying therapies (standardized β=-.03, p=.77) did not predict change in disability scores.


CONCLUSIONS: The current research highlights the possible role of physical activity before MS onset for lessening disability progression over time in persons with RRMS. Additional research is necessary on physical activity initiated after the diagnosis of RRMS as a lifestyle approach for bolstering physiological reserve and preventing disability progression.


"This study indicates that physical exercise prior to MS-onset is a predictor of slower disease progression once you have the disease. Chicken or egg? Physical activity is associated with a lot of other factors that could explain this result, apart from exercise itself. For example, exercise may be a marker of outdoor activity and greater sunlight exposure and therefore higher vD levels. vD may be the factor that is influencing disease course. People who exercise are less likely to smoke, we know that smokers have a worse disease course. People who exercise tend to have better diets and weigh less....., etc.  I could go on but I won't. This study needs to be repeated and we need to try and identify the confounders. This would be important for MSers as they may support lifestyle changes that could modify the course of MS."

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