Research hotspots and thematic evolution in the field of exercise interventions for multiple sclerosis

Yang Jiangxi; Li Huangyan; Zhang Yeting; Yu Zuoyin

doi:10.12307/2026.721

Abstract：BACKGROUND:Studies have indicated that multi-modal exercise training can effectively improve the endurance walking ability and cognitive processing speed of patients with moderate to severe mobility impairments caused by multiple sclerosis.This effect appears to be related to the optimization of cardiorespiratory function;however,there is a lack of literature review in this area. OBJECTIVE:To identify research hotspots and explore the thematic evolution in the field of exercise interventions for multiple sclerosis through a bibliometric analysis. METHODS:A literature search was conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection database using the query:TS=("multiple sclerosis")AND TS=("physical activity"OR exercise OR sport),limited to English-language publications.A total of 3 761 articles regarding exercise interventions for multiple sclerosis were included for visualized analysis using CiteSpace. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)The evolving landscape of key research domains in exercise and multiple sclerosis demonstrates a notable transition toward interdisciplinary collaboration,marked by a paradigm shift from conventional therapeutic approaches to cutting-edge digital rehabilitation solutions.Current research trends reveal a progressive movement from fundamental immunological studies and disease progression monitoring to more investigations focusing on rehabilitation interventions and quality-of-life enhancements.(2)Thematic classifications encompass three key dimensions:intervention methodologies,research design frameworks,and intervention indicators.Notably,advancements in modern rehabilitation technologies have facilitated the application of virtual reality systems,virtual reality games,and robotic-assisted training protocols as therapeutic interventions for patients with multiple sclerosis.Exercise intervention for multiple sclerosis is shifting from empirical practices toward a more precise,theory-driven approach.(3)Early research focused on the clinical manifestations of multiple sclerosis,common comorbidities(such as depression and fatigue),and the initial examination of exercise interventions.Mid-to-late stage research emphasized the standardized validation of exercise rehabilitation effects,including an increasing number of randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses,while the research scope expanded to cognitive impairment,behavioral adjustment,and other aspects.The latest stage of research,building on previous achievements,combines new technologies such as virtual reality and adopts patient-experience-centered methods,thus forming a more comprehensive and evidence-based treatment strategy.The development of research themes can be divided into four periods:"macro-benefit verification,""theoretical modeling and initial exploration of mechanisms,""behavioral motivation construction and participation promotion,"and"precision and technology integration."This study provides a solid theoretical foundation for the formulation and improvement of exercise intervention plans in clinical practice for multiple sclerosis.