Steps to Health: Backward Walking Predicts Physical Activity Levels in Multiple Sclerosis.

Only 45 participants were analysed, so the models may not apply to other groups. The sample had mild walking difficulty on average, with a median PDDS score of 1, so it may not apply to people with more severe MS-related mobility impairment. The study was observational and did not test whether changing backward walking changes physical activity. The cutoffs were derived in this sample and not tested in a new group. Only total step count was measured, not activity intensity, duration, or sedentary behaviour. One participant was excluded because they did not meet Fitbit wear-time requirements. The study did not account for environment, depression or anxiety, which can influence activity.

The authors declared no potential conflicts of interest. The supplied text does not report a funding source.

Do not conclude that training backward walking will increase physical activity. This was an observational prediction study in 45 people with mild MS, and no intervention was tested.