Design, acceptability, and measured outcomes of music interventions for walking in persons with multiple sclerosis: A scoping review

Abstract

Background: Mobility impairments are common in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS), reducing independence and quality of life. Walking interventions can enhance mobility skills, with auditory-motor coupling (synchronising steps with auditory beats) serving as a promising method. Design and participants' characteristics may impact intervention effectiveness, but have not yet been compared across studies in persons with MS. Aims: This scoping review aims to determine what design and implementation features are present in studies involving auditory-motor coupling for mobility in persons with MS. Features being assessed include auditory stimuli, mobility variables, participants' characteristics, and the acceptability and appropriateness of the interventions. Methods: We searched eight scientific databases and three clinical trial registries for literature on auditory-motor coupling in studies of persons with MS. We extracted features related to study design, participants, and intervention acceptability. Results: Fifteen original research articles were identified, including seven randomised controlled intervention studies. Most articles involved persons with mild to moderate disability. Auditory stimulation was provided via music or metronome. Few studies reported involving people with MS in the design (n=2) or allowed autonomy in music choice (n=2). Common outcomes were walking quality and speed. All studies reported that acceptability was high. Conclusion: Review findings on existing evidence of auditory-motor coupling in persons with MS indicate good user acceptability. However consideration of participants' characteristics, such as musical experience and MS symptoms, and auditory stimuli consideration, alongside inclusion of persons with MS in intervention development is needed to strength the evidence of auditory coupling as an intervention in MS.