The MoXFo initiative – study design: Considerations related to study design and methodology in exercise research for people with multiple sclerosis

U Dalgas, M Riemenschneider, SM Gold, A Kalron, H Beckerman, Groot V de, R Dennett, T Edwards, LA Pilutti, J Freeman

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

10 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Background: Exercise as a subset of physical activity is a cornerstone in the management of multiple sclerosis (MS) based on its pleiotropic effects, but continued progression of the field requires better future designs and methodologies. Objectives: This paper outlines the work of the ‘Study design and methodology’ group of the MoXFo (moving exercise research forward) initiative, and addresses critical aspects and future directions when defining the research question of interest, and subsequently, designing the study and exercise intervention in MS patients. Methods: The work is based on the formation of an international expert panel formed within the MoXFo initiative. We provide a structured and concise synthesis of exercise-specific MS research challenges and considerations when designing randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Results: Challenges and considerations are presented using the Patient population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcomes, Timing, Setting (PICOTS) framework, thereby forming a new and specific MS exercise PICOTS framework. Conclusion: We propose that researchers should carefully consider and align all elements of this MS exercise PICOTS framework when developing future research questions and study designs, ultimately improving the quality of new exercise studies in people with MS.
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages0
JournalMultiple Sclerosis Journal
Volume0
Issue number0
Early online date26 Oct 2023
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 26 Oct 2023

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The MoXFo initiative – study design: Considerations related to study design and methodology in exercise research for people with multiple sclerosis'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this