The association between physical activity and sleep characteristics in people with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

STUDY OBJECTIVES:
The majority of individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) suffer from sleep disorders. In this study, we investigated the relationship between physical activity and sleep characteristics in MS patients.

METHODS:
Sixty MS patients were recruited in the study. Sleep characteristics were assessed using the Actisleep device while physical activity levels were assessed using mobility accelerometer.

RESULTS:
The results showed that means (±SD) of sleep latency (SL) and sleep efficiency (ES) for MS patients were 23.89±13.23min and 87.52±76.89% respectively. The participants' total time in sleep (TST) and wake after sleep onset (WASO) were 353.25±63.98min and 83.84±42.23min respectively. With respect to physical activity levels, means (±SD) of light (LA), moderate (MA), vigorous (VA) activities and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) were 11,660.15±18,145, 212.04±148.67, 9.70±9.26 and 222.88±154.60 counts per minute, respectively. Pearson's correlation analysis showed that WASO correlated significantly with LA, MA and MVPA (P<0.05). These correlations remained significant even after accounting for age, body weight and disease severity (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION:
The results show a positive relationship of physical activity with sleep parameters in individuals with MS.