Assessing the Impact of the Mindfulness-Based Body Scan Technique on Sleep Quality in Multiple Sclerosis Using Objective and Subjective Assessment Tools: Single-Case Study (Preprint)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Single-case study Case report |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1 |
| Population | A 31-year-old woman diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis |
| Intervention | Mindfulness-based body scan technique |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Key findings | The authors report that daily mindfulness-based body scan practice before bedtime was followed by improvements in self-reported sleep quality and overall quality of life, with biometric data showing a dissociation between daily stress levels and sleep quality during the intervention. They caution that self-report biases are possible and that the single-patient design limits conclusions, calling for larger studies. |
Abstract
Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the central nervous system, often leading to poor sleep quality and diminished quality of life (QoL) for affected patients. Sleep disturbances in MS do not always correlate linearly with other symptoms such as anxiety, depression, fatigue, or pain. Various approaches, including stress reduction techniques such as mindfulness-based interventions, have been proposed to manage MS-related sleep issues.
Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the mindfulness-based body scan technique on sleep quality and QoL in patients with MS using both subjective (questionnaires) and objective (electronic portable device) measures.
Methods: A single-case study was performed involving a 31-year-old woman diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS. The patient practiced the mindfulness-based body scan technique daily before bedtime and outcomes were compared to measures evaluated at baseline.
Results: The mindfulness-based body scan intervention demonstrated positive effects on both sleep quality and overall QoL. Biometric data revealed a notable dissociation between daily stress levels and sleep quality during the intervention period. Although self-report instruments indicated significant improvement, potential biases were noted.
Conclusions: While this study is limited to a single patient, the promising outcomes suggest the need for further investigation on a larger scale. These findings underscore the potential benefits of the mindfulness-based body scan technique in managing sleep disturbances and enhancing QoL among patients with MS.