Correlation of Physical Activity with Perceived Cognitive Deficits in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis

Cognitive difficulties represent a core symptom experienced by individuals with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). The field of gerontology has provided evidence that physical activity may moderate the decline in cognitive functioning that occurs with increasing age. Based on that evidence, we examined the association between physical activity and perceived cognitive impairment in people with RRMS. The study sample consisted of 82 individuals with RRMS who completed an initial battery of questionnaires, including the Perceived Deficits Questionnaire (PDQ), wore an accelerometer for 7 days, and then completed the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ). Physical activity, measured by either an accelerometer or the GLTEQ, was inversely associated with overall PDQ scores, even after controlling for clinical and demographic factors. Additional studies are needed on physical activity as a modifiable behavior with a potential impact on cognitive impairment in individuals with RRMS.