Participant Perspectives on Community Qigong for People with Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting motor and nonmotor function including physical and cognitive decline, fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Qigong is a mind–body self-care practice with the potential to address MS symptoms. Publicly available community qigong classes may provide opportunities for people with MS to access qigong, but little is known about the risks and benefits. A mixed methods study of community qigong was conducted for people with MS. In this article, the results of this qualitative analysis to identify benefits and challenges faced by people with MS attending community qigong classes were presented. Methods: Qualitative data were collected from an exit survey of 14 study participants with MS who enrolled in a pragmatic trial of community qigong classes for 10 weeks. Participants were new to community-based classes offered but some had experience with qigong/tai chi/other martial arts or yoga. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results and Discussion: Seven common themes were identified from this analysis: (1) physical function, (2) motivation/energy, (3) learning, (4) dedicating time for self, (5) meditation/centering/focus, (6) relaxation/stress relief, and (7) psychological/psychosocial. These themes reflected both positive and negative experiences with community qigong classes and home practice. Self-reported benefits centered around improved flexibility, endurance, energy, and focus; stress relief; and psychological/psychosocial benefits. Challenges included physical discomfort including short-term pain, balance difficulty, and heat intolerance. Conclusion: The qualitative findings provide evidence to support qigong as a self-care practice that may benefit people with MS. The challenges identified in the study will help to inform future clinical trials of qigong for MS. Trial Registration: (CTR#: NCT04585659).

Recent Studies in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

“…Mind-body therapies (MBTs), including tai chi and qigong as well as hypnosis, imagery and yoga were found to be effective in addressing a myriad of psychosocial and physical symptoms and biomarkers as well as immune function for people suffering from cancer [91]. Patients having multiple sclerosis also benefitted by incorporating qigong exercises into their medical regimen [92]. A study of the effects of exercise on sleep in perimenopausal; women found that various kinds of exercise, including yoga, walking, fitness qigong and aerobics all had a beneficial effect, but qigong was the most effective technique when practiced for 10-12 weeks with a frequency of more than 3 times a week for a duration of 30-60 minutes [93].…”