Mobility disability and the pattern of accelerometer-derived sedentary and physical activity behaviors in people with multiple sclerosis

•MS patients with mobility disability had more daily sedentary time (65% vs. 60%).•MS patients with mobility disability had less time in light activity (34% vs. 37%).•MS patients with mobility disability had less time in MVPA (1% vs. 3%).•MS patients with mobility disability engage more in prolonged sedentary bouts (5.1 vs. 4.3).

ObjectiveLow physical activity and high sedentary behavior levels are major concerns in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) and these differ depending on the level of mobility disability. However, the manner in which daily activity is accumulated is currently unknown in this population.MethodsA secondary analysis was performed on a combined data set of persons with MS from two previous investigations of physical activity and symptomatic or quality of life outcomes in the United States over a two year period (2007–2009). Mobility disability status was determined using the Patient Determined Disease Steps (PDDS) while activity behavior was objectively monitored using an ActiGraph accelerometer for 7 days.ResultsPersons with MS who have mobility disability were involved in sedentary behavior, light and moderate intensity activity for 65%, 34% and 1% of the day, respectively compared to 60%, 37%, and 3%, respectively in those without mobility disability (p < 0.05). Breaks in sedentary time did not differ by mobility disability status. Compared to those without mobility disability, the average number of sedentary bouts longer than 30 min was greater in those with mobility disability (p = 0.016).ConclusionPersons with MS with mobility disability are less active, engage in more sedentary behavior and accumulate prolonged sedentary bouts.