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.

A 31-year-old woman with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis practiced a mindfulness-based body scan technique daily before bedtime. Compared to baseline, the intervention improved both sleep quality and overall quality of life according to subjective questionnaires and objective biometric data from an electronic portable device. 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. The single-case study suggests the technique may help manage sleep disturbances and enhance quality of life in MS, but larger-scale investigation is needed.

Study at a glance

Abstract

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. 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. 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. 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. 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.