# Evaluating the effectiveness of the “Spine Up” online program on depression and quality of life in people with multiple sclerosis: a pilot test for a 16-week intervention

## TL;DR

An online exercise program called Spine Up was tested for its impact on depression and quality of life in people with multiple sclerosis, showing mixed quantitative results but positive subjective feedback.

## Contribution

This study is the first to evaluate the Spine Up online program's feasibility and effects on depression and physical activity in MS patients.

## Key findings

- No significant changes in depression or physical activity were observed immediately after the intervention.
- Participants reported increased confidence and motivation to engage in movement.
- Physical activity levels remained stable, potentially preventing typical declines in MS populations.

## Abstract

Depression and reduced physical activity are common challenges among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS), substantially impacting quality of life. Online, home-based exercise programs may help overcome mobility and access barriers. This pilot study evaluated the feasibility and perceived effects of a 16-week online stabilization-based exercise intervention—the Spine Up Program (SUP)—on depressive symptoms, physical activity, and subjective functional experience in people with MS.

Fifty participants (mean age = 46.2 years; 86% female), recruited through the Hungarian MS Foundation, completed pre- and post-intervention assessments using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and other socio-demographic and self-related questions. Sessions were held weekly for 50 min online.

No statistically significant changes were observed in depression or physical activity immediately post-intervention. At three months, depressive symptoms showed a small, non-significant reduction. Physical activity remained stable, suggesting prevention of typical decline commonly observed in MS populations. Participants reported increases in confidence, perceived capability, and motivation to engage in movement. Regression analyses indicated that sport before illness and employment status were meaningful predictors of physical activity, whereas no significant predictors emerged for depression.

Although quantitative improvements were modest, participants consistently reported positive subjective changes, supporting the feasibility and acceptability of online spinal stabilization training for people with MS. Maintaining physical activity levels and observing even small improvements in mood may hold clinical relevance in a condition characterized by progressive decline.