Neurology

Wearables may flag patients with multiple sclerosis at risk for disability progression

March 5, 2026

Wearable sensors may help identify people with multiple sclerosis (MS) who are more likely to experience worsening disability and brain atrophy, according to a study published in Neurology. Among 238 adults with MS followed for about three years, decreases in daytime activity—especially between 8:00 and 2:00 p.m.—were associated with higher odds of disease progression. Each standard‑deviation decline in morning activity correlated with a 0.18% decrease in whole‑brain volume, 0.34% loss in deep gray matter, and 0.35% loss in thalamic volume. Limitations included lack of a non‑MS comparison group and an older, more disabled cohort.

Clinical takeaway: Wrist‑worn activity trackers may help identify early mobility decline in MS; consider adding them to longitudinal monitoring when subtle functional changes are suspected.

Sources:

Fitzgerald K, et al. (2026, March 4). Neurology. Association of Changes in Activity Patterns With Brain Atrophy and Disability Progression in People With Multiple Sclerosis. https://www.neurology.org/doi/10.1212/WNL.0000000000214678

(2026, March 4). American Academy of Neurology. In MS, wearable sensors may help identify people at risk of worsening disability [News release]. https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/Home/PressRelease/5319