Nearby parks linked to more activity in youth with MS

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Key Takeaway

Youth with MS were more active when they lived near green spaces and less active in areas with many street intersections.

What They Found

Researchers studied 59 young people with MS (median age 15) and measured their weekly physical activity using a simple questionnaire. They linked each participant's neighborhood features—like nearby parks (green space), number of street intersections, and walk/transit-friendly scores—to the person’s activity scores. More green space within about a 5–10 minute walk (500 meters) was tied to higher overall activity and more moderate-to-vigorous activity. Neighborhoods with many intersections within about a 10–15 minute walk (1000 meters) were linked to lower activity levels. Measures of how walkable or transit-friendly an area is (Walk/Transit Score) did not show a clear link to activity in this group.

Who Should Care and Why

People with MS and their caregivers should care because where you live may help or hurt the chance to be active, which can affect symptoms and wellbeing — like how having a nearby park makes it easier to go outside for a walk. Clinicians and therapists who plan exercise programs should think about a young person’s neighborhood when suggesting activities — for example recommending nearby green spaces if possible. Families deciding where to spend free time might prioritize parks or safe green areas to make exercise simpler and more enjoyable. Community planners and advocacy groups can use this to push for more green space near homes with families affected by MS, similar to adding a nearby playground to encourage kids to play outside. Caregivers can also use this info to pick routes or local spots that feel safer and more pleasant, which may help build a routine.

Important Considerations

This study looked at a small group (59 youths) at one point in time, so it can’t prove that green space causes more activity — only that they are linked. The study used postal codes to estimate neighborhood features, which is a rough measure and might not reflect each person’s exact surroundings or access to parks. Results may not apply to all youth with MS because neighborhood types and individual abilities vary, so use this as a helpful clue rather than a firm rule.

Categories:

Living with MS Nutrition Mental Wellness

Article Topics:

Health behaviorbuilt environmentgreen spacehealth promotionmultiple sclerosispediatric-onset MSphysical activity

Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or are seeking to broaden your understanding of this complex, neurodegenerative disease, navigating the latest research can feel overwhelming. Studies published in respected medical journals like Multiple sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England) often range from early-stage, exploratory work to advanced clinical trials. These evidence-based findings help shape new disease-modifying therapies, guide symptom management techniques, and deepen our knowledge of MS progression.

However, not all research is created equal. Some clinical research studies may have smaller sample sizes, evolving methodologies, or limitations that warrant careful interpretation. For a more comprehensive, accurate understanding, we recommend reviewing the original source material—accessible via the More Details section above—and consulting with healthcare professionals who specialize in MS care.

By presenting a wide range of MS-focused studies—spanning cutting-edge treatments, emerging therapies, and established best practices—we aim to empower patients, caregivers, and clinicians to stay informed and make well-informed decisions when managing Multiple Sclerosis.

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