Healthcare professionals’ perceptions and experiences of promoting physical activity in persons with multiple sclerosis: a systematic review of qualitative evidence

PURPOSE: To synthesise existing evidence on healthcare professionals' perceptions and experiences of physical activity promotion in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The PRISMA and ENTREQ guidelines were used. SCOPUS, CINAHL, PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO and Web of Science databases were searched from database inception to 19 September 2025 to identify eligible studies. Search was limited to peer-reviewed articles, with a focus on healthcare professionals' views about physical activity promotion in persons with MS. Data were extracted and thematically analysed, and identified themes were synthesised. RESULTS: Eight studies met the selection criteria. Identified themes were related to health professional-based factors (knowledge of MS and awareness of physical activity types and benefits, skills, training and education, continuity of support and professional role), organisational factors (coordinated teamwork and proactive approach, policies, protocols and guidelines, availability and accessibility of physical activity opportunities), perceived social factors (social support networks) and perceived patient-related factors (MS-related symptoms, self-efficacy and motivation, limited knowledge and misconceptions, and financial limitations). CONCLUSION: Findings suggest that improving physical activity promotion in MS care requires MS-specific education and training for healthcare professionals, practical resources such as patient education materials and referral pathways, and stronger cross-sector coordination to sustain consistent practice.