Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Physical Activity and Associated Technology Use in Persons With Multiple Sclerosis: An International RIMS-SIG Mobility Survey Study

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical activity in persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Design: Multicenter international online survey study. Setting: The survey was conducted within 11 participating countries. Each country launched the survey using online platforms from May to July 2021. Participants: This was an electronic survey study targeting PwMS (N=3725). Intervention: Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures: The survey ascertained physical activity performance and its intensity, the nature of the activities conducted, and the use of technology to support home-based physical activity before and during the pandemic. Results: A total of 3725 respondents completed the survey. Prepandemic, the majority (83%) of respondents reported being physically active, and this decreased to 75% during the pandemic. This change was significant for moderate- and high-intensity activity (P