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

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 +/- 13.23 min and 87.52 +/- 76.89% respectively. The participants' total time in sleep (TST) and wake after sleep onset (WASO) were 353.25 +/- 63.98 min and 83.84 +/- 42.23 min 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.The association between physical activity and sleep characteristics in people with multiple sclerosis