Smith, Moira, McGuckin, Teneale, Flavell, Carol, and van Eijk, Liza (2026) Finding Your Stride: Navigating Running With Multiple Sclerosis. A Qualitative Study. International Journal of MS Care, 28 (2). pp. 75-82.

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Abstract

Background: Running, while challenging, offers benefits for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Health care professionals (HCPs) can support this activity but may need further training to do so. Understanding the barriers and facilitators to running can help HCPs provide better support. This study aims to explore the running experience of individuals with MS and provide guidance to HCPs to support their patients who run. Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted using semi structured focus groups and individual interviews. Transcribed data were coded with NVivo software, and inductive thematic analysis was used to identify emergent themes. Demographic and basic running activity data were collected via survey and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Participants included individuals with MS living in Australia who ran regularly. Results: Eighteen participants (3 male, 15 female) with a median age of 44 years (IQR 12.8; range, 31-57) were included in the study. Most participants met or exceeded the general MS aerobic exercise guidelines, running 3 days per week (IQR 2.0; range, 1-4) for a median duration of 42 minutes per run (IQR 25; range, 15-243). Five focus groups and 1 individual interview were conducted. Six themes were generated: running ability and adaptation, navigating temperature, ensuring environmental safety, managing health and MS, developing strategies to support running, and the need to run. Conclusions: HCPs have opportunities to support and sustain running participation for individuals with MS by considering safe training adaptations, environmental safety, and appropriate referrals to other HCPs.

Item ID:	90990
Item Type:	Article (Research - C1)
ISSN:	1537-2073
Keywords:	Multiple sclerosis, running, health professionals, qualitative descriptive methodology
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Copyright Information:	© 2026 Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers. As a bronze open-access journal, there are never any article processing charges or author publishing charges. The research entrusted to IJMSC is free to access for fellow researchers, MS clinicians, persons with MS, and all interested in multidisciplinary MS care.
Date Deposited:	24 Mar 2026 02:17
FoR Codes:	42 HEALTH SCIENCES > 4201 Allied health and rehabilitation science > 420109 Rehabilitation @ 100%
SEO Codes:	20 HEALTH > 2003 Provision of health and support services > 200301 Allied health therapies (excl. mental health services) @ 100%
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