PANMS

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is commonly diagnosed during young and middle adulthood, yet represents a lifelong disease. Those newly diagnosed with MS may experience progressive mobility loss, cognitive decline, symptoms of fatigue, depression, and anxiety, and reduced quality of life over time. Importantly, physical activity participation is a lifestyle behavior that can prevent MS symptoms and improve overall well-being, yet we know very little about promoting it among those recently diagnosed with MS.

We are undertaking the PANMS – Physical Activity Trial for promoting physical activity among persons newly diagnosed with MS. The study examines the benefits of a 16-week remotely delivered, physical activity program for persons recently diagnosed with MS (diagnosed with MS for 2 years or less). We believe the evidence-based program is highly feasible and will result in improvements in physical activity, MS symptoms, and quality of life.

The PANMS – Physical Activity Trial consists of a 16-week remotely-delivered physical activity promotion program.

• Everything is done remotely, and you never come into a research laboratory for data collection or participation in the program.
• Participants are randomly assigned into 1 of 2 conditions: a physical activity condition (receive the intervention immediately after baseline) or a waitlist condition (receive the same intervention after 16-week follow-up).
• The physical activity program is 16 weeks long and delivered remotely through the Internet.
• The program involves one-on-one coaching through Zoom with a behavior change coach.
• The program provides the essential equipment and materials (i.e., training manual, calendar, logbook, informational newsletters, and physical activity tracker) for becoming physically active. Participants keep these materials after the study ends.

Participants will receive $100 in compensation for completing the PANMS – Physical Activity Trial. There are NO personnel costs for equipment or travel with this study.

We are currently enrolling participants across the United States.