Preprint Article Version 1 Preserved in Portico This version is not peer-reviewed

Therapeutic Climbing for Patients with Multiple Sclerosis in Neurorehabilitation: A Qualitative Study

Version 1 : Received: 17 November 2023 / Approved: 20 November 2023 / Online: 20 November 2023 (05:01:25 CET)

How to cite: Schiffler, T.; Reiter, E.; Kapan, A.; Kranz, G.; Kotzian, S. T.; Haider, S. Therapeutic Climbing for Patients with Multiple Sclerosis in Neurorehabilitation: A Qualitative Study. Preprints 2023, 2023111214. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202311.1214.v1 Schiffler, T.; Reiter, E.; Kapan, A.; Kranz, G.; Kotzian, S. T.; Haider, S. Therapeutic Climbing for Patients with Multiple Sclerosis in Neurorehabilitation: A Qualitative Study. Preprints 2023, 2023111214. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202311.1214.v1

Abstract

Background: Therapeutic climbing (TC) has emerged as a prospective rehabilitation approach for individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Existing literature primarily focuses on the physical and psychological benefits of TC across diverse populations but is limited concerning its application and efficacy for patients with MS. Objectives: This study aimed to delineate the experiences, effects, and perceptions of both individuals with MS and therapists regarding TC, highlighting the potential benefits and challenges of this therapeutic approach. Methods: Using a qualitative design, structured interviews were conducted with patients living with MS (N=5) and therapists (N=7) involved in TC sessions at a rehabilitation facility. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and subjected to thematic qualitative text analysis. Results: Our analysis resulted in the identification of five main categories: (1) motivational factors, (2) training conditions, (3) training content, (4) observed effects, and (5) safety protocols. Findings primarily centred around the motivational aspects of TC. Participants consistently reported experiencing feelings of accomplishment, success, enjoyment, and increased self-confidence. Furthermore, TC was often perceived as a comprehensive intervention, addressing endurance, strength, flexibility, neuromotor functions, cognition, and mental health while having a low-risk profile. However, due to the demanding nature of TC, careful fatigue management is crucial. This entails personalized intensity adjustments during sessions and coordinating TC with other physically demanding therapies when implementing TC within a rehabilitation environment. Conclusions: TC shows promise within MS rehabilitation and can be considered safe under certain framework conditions. This research sheds light on its potential benefits, facilitators and barriers and provides insights for practical integration into rehabilitation programmes.

Keywords

multiple sclerosis; therapeutic climbing; motivation; training conditions; neurorehabilitation; qualitative research

Subject

Public Health and Healthcare, Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation

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