Overview
This study aims to advance the scientific understanding and potential future implementation of physical activity promotion by testing the efficacy of a phone-based app for increasing activity in insufficiently active patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Description
This study aims to test the efficacy of ExerciseRx, a free software platform designed to increase physical activity in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Exercise is crucial for managing MS symptoms and overall health, but approximately 80% of PwMS do not get enough physical activity due to barriers like physical limitations, common MS symptoms, and lack of community exercise facilities. ExerciseRx translates clinically relevant activity data collected by personal smart devices into actionable metrics on a dashboard within the Epic electronic health record, allowing healthcare providers to prescribe and monitor tailored physical activity solutions for their patients. This study will test the effects of ExerciseRx in a sample of inactive PwMS.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Provider-confirmed diagnosis of MS using revised 2017 McDonald criteria
- > 18+ years of age
- Patient determined disease steps (PDDS) score < 3, indicating the potential for some gait disability although typically ambulates without an assistive device
- Insufficiently active, defined as < 150 minutes of physical activity per week, assessed using the PAVS in the EHR in clinics as part of the routine patient intake process
- Use of an iPhone with software version iOS13+ or an Android phone 4.1+
- Agree to install and use the ExerciseRx app for the entire study period and keep their phone on them during the daytime (e.g., pocket, bags, hands)
Exclusion Criteria:
- Recent (past 4 weeks) or planned surgery during the study period which may impact engaging in step counts
- MS relapse within the last 30 days
- Plans to travel internationally during the study period, which could interfere with server uploads of mobile phone data
- Those at a higher risk of falling or injury from falls or unable to safely exercise due to other medical conditions (e.g. heart conditions, diabetes or conditions made worse by walking or physical activity)