Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
Background/Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive neurological disease with profound effects on physical functionality, psychosocial adaptation, and quality of life. This study aims to examine the perceptions, experiences, and factors influencing participation in physiotherapy-based rehabilitation among individuals diagnosed with MS. Methods: This qualitative study was designed using a descriptive phenomenological approach. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 12 purposively sampled individuals with relapsing–remitting MS (10 women; mean age, 45.6 ± 6.4 years; mean Expanded Disability Status Scale score, 4.8 ± 1.5). Data were collected until code saturation was reached and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Two overarching themes were identified: living with MS and rehabilitation in MS. Most participants perceived physiotherapy as supporting their function, independence, and psychological well-being; three perceived no change or felt worse after sessions. A friendly, knowledgeable physiotherapist, individualized exercises, and easy transportation were described as facilitators, and physical symptoms, transportation difficulties, and lack of information as barriers. Conclusions: From the participants’ perspective, physiotherapy-based rehabilitation was experienced not merely as symptomatic treatment but as support for function, independence, and psychological well-being. Structuring services around therapeutic relationships, individualized programs, and early information may facilitate participation; these perception-based findings do not establish effectiveness.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Erturan et al. (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 10 related papers. Consider them for comparative context: