Although growing evidence has shown beneficial effects of motor imagery (MI) training in different populations, not all patients with neurological diseases may benefit from this mental strategy. In people with MS, there is already some evidence that MI has positive effects. To determine which patients would benefit most and what factors need to be considered, the study team searched 8 databases, 4 trial registries, 9 dissertation repositories, and 1 internet search engine. The analysis included 14 studies involving 366 people with MS and 236 healthy controls. The most frequently reported negative factor influencing MI ability in people with MS was cognitive impairment. Other negative factors included severe disability and cognitive fatigue. Inconsistent evidence was found regarding the contributions of MS phenotype, anxiety and depression. The use of a theory-based MI framework and familiarisation with MI and external stimulation, such as cueing, may enhance MI ability.

Publication:
Seebacher, B., Reindl, M., & Kahraman, T. (2022). Factors and strategies affecting motor imagery ability in people with multiple sclerosis: a systematic review. Physiotherapy, S0031-9406(22)00097-9. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physio.2022.09.005

The study was conducted in collaboration with the Medical University of Innsbruck (Austria), the Karl Landsteiner Institute for Interdisciplinary Rehabilitation Research, Münster (Austria), the Psychometric Laboratory for Health Sciences at the University of Leeds (UK), and the Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust in Liverpool (UK).

Many people with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience fatigue and exhaustion in daily life. To assess these symptoms and evaluate treatment effects in future studies, valid and reliable measurement instruments are essential. This study aimed to validate the German version of the Neurological Fatigue Index – Multiple Sclerosis (NFI-MS-G), a patient-reported outcome measure developed according to the Rasch model to comprehensively assess fatigue in MS.

In a bi-centre study involving 309 people with MS undergoing rehabilitation, the NFI-MS-G was administered twice within 14–21 days alongside other established questionnaires. The instrument demonstrated good construct, convergent, and known-groups validity, high internal consistency, and excellent test–retest reliability. While the physical and cognitive subscales were unidimensional, the summary scale showed minor local dependencies that were resolved through testlet analysis.

Overall, the NFI-MS-G accurately captures the multidimensional construct of fatigue and demonstrates strong psychometric properties. It provides a valid and reliable instrument for assessing fatigue in German-speaking people with MS and can be confidently used in both clinical practice and research. Further methodological details are available in the corresponding publication.

Publication:
Seebacher, B., Horton, M. C., Reindl, M., Brenneis, C., Ehling, R., Deisenhammer, F., & Mills, R. J. (2022, 2022/12/14). Psychometrische Prüfung des deutschsprachigen „Neurologischen Fragebogens zur Müdigkeit bei Multipler Sklerose (NFI-MS-G)“ bei Rehabilitanden mit Multipler Sklerose [Psychometric Evaluation of the ‘German Neurological Fatigue Index for Multiple Sclerosis (NFI-MS-G)’ in a Sample of Rehabilitation Patients with Multiple Sclerosis]. Rehabilitation (Stuttg), 62(01), 31-39. https://doi.org/10.1055/a-1903-4483

Standardised exercise therapy programmes in pulmonary rehabilitation have been shown to improve physical performance and lung function in patients recovering from post-acute COVID-19. However, it remains unclear whether these benefits are equally pronounced in both sexes. The aim of this study was to analyse sex-specific outcomes following a pulmonary rehabilitation programme and to identify potential differences in rehabilitation needs.

Data from 233 post-acute COVID-19 patients (40.4% female) were analysed before and after a three-week standardised pulmonary rehabilitation programme. Lung function was assessed using body plethysmography, and functional exercise capacity was evaluated with the Six-Minute Walk Test.

Following rehabilitation, females showed significantly smaller improvements in maximal inspiratory capacity and forced expiratory volume than males. No statistically significant sex differences were observed in exercise capacity gains. However, females demonstrated greater progress towards reference values for both exercise capacity and forced expiratory volume in the first second compared with males.

These findings suggest that sex-related differences in lung function improvements should be considered when individualising standardised exercise therapy programmes in pulmonary rehabilitation.

Publication:
Rausch, L., Puchner, B., Fuchshuber, J., Seebacher, B., Löffler-Ragg, J., Pramsohler, S., Netzer, N., & Faulhaber, M. (2022). The Effects of Exercise Therapy Moderated by Sex in Rehabilitation of COVID-19. International journal of sports medicine, 43(12), 1043–1051. https://doi.org/10.1055/a-1866-6092.

The impact of the COVD-19 pandemic has affected all our lives, including research into rehabilitation and quality of life in multiple sclerosis (MS). We explored perceived barriers to research among 87 researchers, representing 18 countries, both prior to and since COVID-19. The most commonly cited barriers related to participant access and interruptions or delays to projects. Although no gender differences were found in the number of barriers reported, female respondents were more likely to cite time or competing demands as barriers to research. Females were also more likely to perceive being negatively impacted by the pandemic compared to other genders.

Publication:
Maguire R, Hynes S, Seebacher B, et al. Research interrupted: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on multiple sclerosis research in the field of rehabilitation and quality of life. Multiple Sclerosis Journal - Experimental, Translational and Clinical. 2021;7(3). https://doi.org/10.1177/20552173211038030.

Self-efficacy concerns individuals’ beliefs in their capability to exercise control in specific situations and complete tasks successfully. In people with multiple sclerosis (MS), self-efficacy has been associated with physical activity levels and quality of life. As a validated German language self-efficacy scale for people with MS is missing the aims of this study were to translate the Unidimensional Self-Efficacy Scale for Multiple Sclerosis (USE-MS) into German and culturally adapt it for people with MS in Austria. A further aim was to validate the German USE-MS (USE-MS-G) in people with MS.

This study was conducted in collaboration with the outpatient MS-Clinic of the Clinical Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck. Following guidelines for translation and validation of questionnaires and applying Bandura’s concept of self-efficacy, the USE-MS was forward-backward translated with content and face validity established Cultural adaptation for Austria was performed using cognitive patient interviews. Rasch analysis (a statistical method) was employed to assess construct validity. Comparison was made to scales for resilience, general self-efficacy, anxiety and depression, MS-fatigue and health-related quality of life. Data were also pooled with an historic English dataset to compare the English and German language versions.

The translation and cultural adaptation were successfully performed in the adaptation process of the USE-MS-G. Pretesting was conducted in 30 people with MS and the validation of the final USE-MS-G involved 309 people with MS with minimal to severe disability. The USE-MS-G was shown to be valid and reliable, with measurement properties comparable to the original English scale.

Publication:
Seebacher, B., Mills, R. J., Reindl, M., Zamarian, L., Kircher, S., Brenneis, C., Ehling, R., & Deisenhammer, F. (2021). German translation, cultural adaptation and validation of the unidimensional self-efficacy scale for multiple sclerosis. BMC neurology, 21(1), 163. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12883-021-02183-y.

The MuSic Moves project - joint development of a music-supported exercise programme for people with multiple sclerosis.

Autonomy is the ability to act independently and according to one's own will, and it is a fundamental human need.

From April 2022 to July 2023, an exciting research project was carried out at the Clinic for Rehabilitation Münster. This project was initiated by people with multiple sclerosis (MS). The aim was to create an exercise programme incorporating music for people with MS of varying fitness levels and with different limitations due to the disease.

Regular training helps MS sufferers maintain their independence in daily life, and of course such training should be enjoyable. Music promotes motivation and improves movement, rhythm and stamina.

The project's goal was to create music-supported videos for self-training with and for people with MS. Another important goal for the researchers was to learn from the co-researchers about their experiences, knowledge, needs, and preferences.

Without financial support, this project would not have been possible, as all co-researchers and participants with MS were compensated for their time and travel expenses. This funding was provided by the Ludwig Boltzmann Gesellschaft GmbH, Open Innovation in Science Centre, Vienna. The researchers' personnel costs were supported by the Multiple Sclerosis Research Society Vienna and the ÖMSG Gemeinnützige Privatstiftung.

Good and reliable partnerships are essential for a project to thrive, so we collaborated with people with MS, MS self-help groups, the MS societies of Tyrol and Vienna, and colleagues from the Medical University of Vienna, Department of Neurology. People with MS were actively involved in developing the exercise programme and selecting the music. Teamwork included joint information workshops, research meetings, peer-to-peer focus groups and interviews. These served to identify the needs and preferences of the participants, which informed the development of the exercise programme.

Reflexive thematic analysis revealed four key themes—engagement, ease, autonomy, and musical meaning. The integration of qualitative and quantitative findings demonstrated the success of the Patient and Public Involvement activities, resulting in 148 co-created, freely accessible videos. These include four expert interviews and 144 music-supported exercise videos tailored for people with MS across varying disability levels. Participants found the videos relevant and practical, with ‘easy’ exercises suited to those severely affected. Quantitative assessments indicated that stakeholders felt included, respected, and heard.

At the world's largest congress on multiple sclerosis research and treatment, the ECTRIMS Congress in Amsterdam (26–28 October 2022), Priv.-Doz. Dr. Barbara Seebacher, MSc (Clinic for Rehabilitation Münster) and Bernhard Fasching, MSc (Medical University of Vienna) presented a scientific poster on the ‘MuSiC Moves’ project on behalf of the team of researchers and co-researchers.

From 14 to 17 December 2022, the World Congress for Neurorehabilitation took place in Vienna. Bernhard Fasching, MSc (Medical University of Vienna), Isabella Hotz, MSc and Sarah Mildner, MSc (Clinic for Rehabilitation Münster) presented a scientific poster on the project on behalf of the team of researchers and co-researchers.

Link: MuSic Moves

Publications:
Fasching B, Mildner S, Fink F, Wanitschek A, Langweil N, Monschein T, Berger T, Leutmezer F, Seebacher B, Hotz I, Brenneis C. MuSic Moves-co-creating a music-supported exercise programme with and for people with multiple sclerosis: a bicentre participatory mixed methods study. BMJ Open. 2024 Nov 24;14(11):e091168. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-091168. Erratum in: BMJ Open. 2024 Dec 5;14(12):e091168corr1. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-091168corr1. doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2024-091168

Correction for 'MuSic Moves-co-creating a music-supported exercise programme with and for people with multiple sclerosis: a bicentre participatory mixed methods study'. BMJ Open. 2024 Dec 5;14(12):e091168corr1. doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2024-091168corr1. Erratum for: BMJ Open. 2024 Nov 24;14(11):e091168. doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2024-091168

Partner/Förderer:

ExerG: An innovative digital solution that trains physical and mental function through exergame training in an ecologically valid and safe environment for the geriatric population.

Life expectancy is increasing, and conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS), and artificial hip replacements require targeted approaches in geriatric exercise rehabilitation. Age-related falls are also common. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 28–35% of people over the age of 65 fall at least once a year. Falls can lead to injuries that negatively impact quality of life.

AAL ExerCube. Photo: Sphery AG

Studies have demonstrated that physical and cognitive training can significantly enhance walking ability and balance, while also reducing the risk of falls. When developing an appropriate therapeutic training programme, several challenges must be addressed: the training should be easy for users to understand, individually adaptable, and motivating. Exergames offer a promising solution in this regard, providing a motivating therapeutic approach. These are exercise programmes based on video game technology, which can also be applied in rehabilitation settings.

The ‘ExerG’ project was carried out from 1 May 2021 to 31 October 2023. The project aimed to implement a new training method and develop an exergame for older people, both with and without neurological or geriatric impairments. This type of training is safe, transferable to real life and easily accessible. Users were involved in developing the training device from the outset to ensure it met their needs, preferences and wishes. The project was therefore divided into several phases: first, users were surveyed; then, they tested the training device for user-friendliness. Therapists also contributed their professional expertise to the development and testing of the training device throughout all phases.

The ExerG project was co-funded by the European Commission as part of the Horizon 2020 programme, 'Societal Challenge: Health, demographic change, wellbeing'. The project consortium consisted of scientific and commercial partners from Switzerland, Austria, and Canada. The Swiss partners were Sphery Ltd., Reha Rheinfelden (RHF), and Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK). The Austrian partners were VASCage GmbH and Clinic for Rehabilitation Münster (RZM). The Canadian partner was the HCI Games Group (HCIGG) in the Communication Arts Department at the Stratford School of Interaction Design and Business at the University of Waterloo.

This project was funded by the Active Assisted Living Programme (AAL). It was also supported by the following national funding bodies: Innosuisse in Switzerland, the Austrian Research Promotion Agency in Austria, and the Canadian Institute of Health Research in Canada.

Publications:

Ringgenberg, N., Mildner, S., Hapig, M., Hermann, S., Kruszewski, K., Martin-Niedecken, A. L., Rogers, K., Schättin, A., Behrendt, F., Böckler, S., Schmidlin, S., Jurt, R., Niedecken, S., Brenneis, C., Bonati, L. H., Schuster-Amft, C., & Seebacher, B. (2022, Aug 16). ExerG: adapting an exergame training solution to the needs of older adults using focus group and expert interviews. J Neuroeng Rehabil, 19(1), 89. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12984-022-01063-x.

Muheim, J., Hotz, I., Kübler, F., Herren, S., Sollereder, S., Kruszewski, K., Martin Niedecken, A. L., Schättin, A., Behrendt, F., Böckler, S., Schmidlin, S., Jurt, R., Niedecken, S., Riederer, Y., Brenneis, C., Leo H. Bonati, L., Seebacher, B. & Schuster Amft, C. ExerG – an exergame-based training device for the rehabilitation of older adults: a functional model usability study. BMC Geriatr 24, 1029 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-024-05617-7.

Herren S, Seebacher B, Mildner S, Riederer Y, Pachmann U, Böckler NS, Niedecken S, Sgandurra SA, Bonati L, Hotz I, Schättin A, Jurt R, Brenneis C, Lenfert K, Behrendt F, Schmidlin S, Nacke L, Schuster-Amft C, Martin-Niedecken AL. Exergame (ExerG)-Based Physical-Cognitive Training for Rehabilitation in Adults With Motor and Balance Impairments: Usability Study. JMIR Serious Games. 2025 Feb 14;13:e66515. doi: 10.2196/66515

Study 1
Walking ability is often impaired in conditions such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease or following a stroke. Robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) can facilitate walking by guiding leg movement and reducing the patient's body weight. The first RAGT study, which began in February 2022, investigated robot-assisted gait training using the Lexo gait trainer (Tyromotion GmbH, Graz, Austria) in individuals with various neurological disorders. Data on balance, walking ability, and risk of falling were collected, among other things. The results showed that RAGT was very well accepted by patients and considered feasible. Participation, retention and adherence to therapy were high, at approximately 85%, 92% and 94% respectively. The desired therapy goals were successfully achieved and only mild, expected adverse events, such as fatigue and muscle soreness, occurred. Improvements were noted in walking speed, walking distance, functional mobility, and the number of steps taken. Data analysis of the qualitative interviews identified four main themes: familiarisation with RAGT, enjoyment and acceptance through a trusting therapeutic relationship, active interacting and minimisation of dissatisfaction through a proactive therapist approach and good gait trainer adaptability.

Study 2
The second RAGT study was conducted between October 2022 and March 2025. As approximately 80% of people who experience a stroke have walking difficulties, this study focused exclusively on individuals post-stroke. This randomised controlled trial compared the effects of four weeks of robot-assisted gait training combined with conventional physiotherapy in people post-stroke in the subacute phase (group 1) and in the chronic phase (group 3) with the effects of four weeks of conventional physiotherapy alone in people post-stroke in the subacute phase (group 2) and in the chronic phase (group 4). The primary outcomes were walking ability and basic activities of daily living. Secondary outcomes included walking speed and distance, functional mobility, fear of falling, fatigue, health-related quality of life, gait parameters, perceived exertion, and intervention acceptability. Adverse events and falls were continuously monitored. Outcomes were assessed by blinded assessors at baseline, post-intervention, and at 8-week follow-up (week 12). The study findings will be reported in due course

Publication Study 1:
Hotz, I., Mildner, S., Stampfer-Kountchev, M., Slamik, B., Blättner, C., Türtscher, E., Kübler, F., Höfer, C., Panzl, J., Rücker, M., Brenneis, C., & Seebacher, B. (2024). Robot-assisted gait training in patients with various neurological diseases: A mixed methods feasibility study. PloS one, 19(8), e0307434. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0307434

What role does the power of motor imagery play? Together with colleagues from the Departments of Neurology at the Medical Universities of Innsbruck and Graz, we set out to answer this question in a joint study. The study investigated the effects of real and imagined gait training with musical stimulation on motor function and brain activity in 132 people with multiple sclerosis (MS). It is well established that specific physiotherapy-based gait training can improve walking ability in people with MS. In this study, music and rhythm were integrated into different types of gait training – mental, real, and combined. The effects on walking performance, fatigue, brain activity, cognitive function, and other parameters were assessed while participants performed various walking tasks under different music genres, rhythms, and tempos.

The results indicate that both real and imagined music-cued gait training enhance walking speed and distance, fatigue, motivation, motor imagery ability, and health-related quality of life in people with MS. While no single training type proved superior, all produced beneficial effects. The combination of movement, motor imagery, and music therefore represents a promising approach in neurological rehabilitation.

Qualitative companion study to the multicentre, double-blind, randomised controlled trial “Actual and imagined music-cued gait training for people with multiple sclerosis”
All 132 people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) with mild to moderate disability who were randomised into the main trial were included in the qualitative analysis. Trained researchers conducted weekly semi-structured telephone interviews during the four-week intervention period to support adherence, discuss challenges, capture experiences, and assess the acceptability of the intervention. Four weeks after completion of the training, follow-up interviews were conducted to capture participants’ self-reported changes in walking ability, fatigue, and overall health compared with baseline.

Thematic analysis identified five main themes: (1) empowerment, (2) remaining in sync, (3) interconnection between imagined and actual walking, (4) sustaining focus and (5) real-world transfer. Participants rated both imagined and actual music-cued gait training as innovative and engaging. Difficulties primarily concerned maintaining concentration, early fatigue in participants with higher disability levels, and challenges in synchronising with musical cues. Following the intervention, participants reported positive changes in walking ability, fatigue, and overall well-being, providing valuable insights for the further development of the programme.

Publications:
Seebacher, B., Helmlinger, B., Pinter, D., Ehling, R., Hegen, H., Ropele, S., Reishofer, G., Enzinger, C., Brenneis, C., & Deisenhammer, F. (2022). Effects of actual and imagined music-cued gait training on motor functioning and brain activity in people with multiple sclerosis: protocol of a randomised parallel multicentre trial. BMJ open, 12(2), e056666. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056666

Seebacher, B., Helmlinger, B., Hotz, I., Pinter, D., Ehling, R., Enzinger, C., Deisenhammer, F., & Brenneis, C. (2024). Actual and imagined music-cued gait training for people with multiple sclerosis: a multicentre qualitative study. BMJ open, 14(7), e086555. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2024-086555

Seebacher, B., Helmlinger, B., Pinter, D., Heschl, B., Ehling, R., Hechenberger, S., Reindl, M., Khalil, M., Enzinger, C., Deisenhammer, F., & Brenneis Md, C. (2024). Actual and Imagined Music-Cued Gait Training in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Double-Blind Randomized Parallel Multicenter Trial. Neurorehabilitation and neural repair, 38(8), 555–569. https://doi.org/10.1177/15459683241260724

Seebacher, B., Helmlinger, B., Pinter, D., Ehling, R., Hegen, H., Ropele, S., Reishofer, G., Enzinger, C., Brenneis, C., & Deisenhammer, F. (2022). Effects of actual and imagined music-cued gait training on motor functioning and brain activity in people with multiple sclerosis: protocol of a randomised parallel multicentre trial. BMJ open, 12(2), e056666. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056666

Up to 20% of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience sleep disturbances. The Neurological Sleep Index – Multiple Sclerosis (NSI-MS) questionnaire is used to assess these difficulties; however, it has so far only been available in English. To facilitate the use of a validated German-language instrument, the NSI-MS was translated and adapted to create the NSI-MS-G. To ensure that the German version measures the same constructs as the original English version, it was evaluated in a large-scale MS study conducted in collaboration with the Department of Neurology at the Medical University of Vienna. The NSI-MS-G now provides a robust tool for assessing sleep problems in people with MS.

Publication:
Seebacher, B., Mildner, S., Monschein, T., Schillerwein-Kral, C., Bsteh, G., Fasching, B., Voggenberger, L., Ziai, J., Mills, R. J., Horton, M. C., Brenneis, C., Berger, T., Leutmezer, F., & Seidel, S. (2024). German translation, cultural adaptation for Austria, and validation of the Neurological Sleep Index-Multiple Sclerosis. Journal of clinical sleep medicine : JCSM : official publication of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 20(12), 1923–1935. https://doi.org/10.5664/jcsm.11286

Parkinson’s disease is one of the most common neurological diseases among people over the age of 60. In addition to the four main symptoms, akinesia (loss of movement initiation), rigidity (muscle stiffness), tremor (involuntary rhythmic shaking), and postural instability, many patients experience difficulties with eye movements, which can increase the risk of falls. In a randomised, controlled pilot study, the effectiveness of targeted physiotherapy training incorporating eye movement exercises was compared with standard physiotherapy in terms of fall rates and dynamic balance. Eye movements were also measured and recorded using special eye-tracking glasses to analyse changes. Twenty-five patients with Parkinson's disease participated in the study. Participants in both groups improved their balance and reduced their fall rate through the four-week training programme. There were also improvements in walking speed, functional mobility when performing tasks, freezing of gait and falls-related self-efficacy. Additionally, the training positively impacted perceived health-related quality of life and mood. Improvements in eye movements were only observed in the group that underwent eye movement training.

Figure showing eye movements in patients who were able to focus well (A) and those who were less able to focus (B

Publication:
Mildner, S., Hotz, I., Kübler, F., Rausch, L., Stampfer-Kountchev, M., Panzl, J., Brenneis, C., & Seebacher, B. (2024). Effects of activity-oriented physiotherapy with and without eye movement training on dynamic balance, functional mobility, and eye movements in patients with Parkinson's disease: An assessor-blinded randomised controlled pilot trial. PloS one, 19(6), e0304788. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0304788

This study was conducted in collaboration with SRH University Heidelberg as part of a supervised master’s thesis.

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are considered the gold standard for establishing clinical evidence. However, the strong emphasis on high internal validity in RCTs can limit the generalisability of their findings to routine clinical practice. In neurorehabilitation, there is limited literature addressing how RCTs can be implemented in a practical and efficient manner. We investigated the barriers and facilitators to conducting RCTs in routine care within neurorehabilitation centres in Germany and Austria from the perspective of key stakeholders. To this end, we carried out semi-structured interviews with stakeholders from four neurorehabilitation centres in Germany and Austria, based on two theoretical frameworks.

The interview findings from physicians, therapy managers, and therapists indicated that the main barriers to conducting RCTs in neurological rehabilitation centres were limited financial, human, and time resources, high workload, and a lack of interest among some therapists. Ineffective leadership, perceived lack of research competence, and communication problems were also significant obstacles. Social factors such as insufficient employer support and limited access to training further exacerbated the challenges. Additional barriers included inadequate research infrastructure, restricted physical space, internal power dynamics, and rigid requirements set by funding bodies.

Key facilitators included physicians’ and therapists’ motivation to advance the field, contribute to knowledge, and prioritise patient health support from superiors, interdisciplinary collaboration, joint decision-making, and efficient organisation were crucial facilitators. Flexible therapy planning, mutual support, and interdisciplinary collaboration also played important roles

Publication:
Hotz, I., Ernst, N., Brenneis, C., Diermayr, G., & Seebacher, B. (2024). Barriers and facilitators to conducting randomised controlled trials within routine care of neurorehabilitation centres: a qualitative study. BMC medical research methodology, 24(1), 258. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12874-024-02386-0

This study was conducted in collaboration with SRH University Heidelberg as part of a supervised master's thesis.

Therapeutic alliance is a relevant aspect of healthcare and may influence patient outcomes. So far, little is known about the therapeutic alliance in telerehabilitation. The aim of this study was therefore to identify and describe central elements of therapeutic alliance in the setting of telerehabilitation and compare it to those in conventional rehabilitation.

This qualitative study involved conducting a literature review and holding in-depth, semi-structured interviews with rehabilitation and telerehabilitation experts to explore the elements that influence the therapeutic alliance. A combination of deductive and inductive approaches was employed to conduct qualitative content analysis and identify categories and derive key themes.

The elements bond, communication, agreement on goals and tasks and external factors were identified in the literature search and informed the development of the interview guide. Twelve experts, specifically selected from the fields of physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, psychology, general medicine, sports science and telerehabilitation software development, participated in the interviews. Three central themes were identified: building effective communication; nurturing a mutual relationship of trust and respect; and agreement on goals and tasks and drivers of motivation. In this qualitative study, key elements of therapeutic alliance in rehabilitation confirmed those reported in the literature, with additional elements in telerehabilitation comprising support from others for ensuring physical safety and technical connectedness, caregivers acting as co-therapists and applying professional touch, and promoting patient autonomy and motivation using specific strategies

Publication:
Seebacher, B., Geimer, C., Neu, J., Schwarz, M., & Diermayr, G. (2024). Identifying central elements of the therapeutic alliance in the setting of telerehabilitation: A qualitative study. PloS one, 19(3), e0299909. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0299909

This study was conducted in collaboration with the University for Continuing Education Krems as part of a supervised master’s thesis.

LSVT®LOUD is an intensive speech therapy targeting voice amplitude, incorporating proprioceptive feedback and auditory-vocal self-monitoring. LSVT®LOUD was administered to patients with Parkinson's disease in 16 one-hour sessions over a month with a high-effort approach. In addition, patients engaged in home-based practice while maintaining the same intensity and frequency. The study compared the effects of LSVT®LOUD tele-therapy (LSVT®LOUD-tele) and traditional face-to-face LSVT®LOUD therapy (LSVT®LOUD-FTF) in 20 patients with Parkinson's disease and hypokinetic dysarthria. The user-friendliness of the LSVT®LOUD-tele software and the feasibility of a large-scale randomised controlled trial (RCT) were also evaluated.

Analysis showed that 19 participants (10 women) completed the study. Both groups showed improvements in sound pressure levels for certain vowels and other voice measurements. No changes were observed in the sound pressure levels of everyday phrases. Both groups showed improvements in sound pressure levels during text reading and conversation. Subjective voice limitation improved in both groups, though only those in the LSVT® LOUD group reported an improvement in dysarthria-related quality of life. Health-related quality of life improvements were observed in daily activities, cognition, and physical discomfort after LSVT® LOUD-FTF, and in communication after LSVT® LOUD-tele. LSVT®LOUD-tele was perceived as being good to excellent in terms of user-friendliness, and the feasibility of a full RCT was confirmed. Therefore, both LSVT® LOUD-tele and LSVT® LOUD-FTF appear to be effective for patients with Parkinson's disease and hypokinetic dysarthria. However, larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Publication:
Kratz, E., Scheffer, J., Volc, D. et al. Comparing face-to-face and online LSVT®LOUD speech training using LSVT®Coach in patients with Parkinson’s disease: a pilot randomised controlled trial. BMC Neurol 25, 183 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12883-025-04161-0

This study was conducted in collaboration with the University of Continuing Education Krems as part of a supervised master's thesis.

This study compared the effectiveness of specific task-oriented training (TOT), its combination with talocrural manual therapy (MT-TOT), and no intervention on balance and mobility in patients in the chronic stage after stroke. Additionally, the feasibility of a full-scale randomised controlled trial (RCT) based on predefined criteria, as well as the acceptance of the intervention, were investigated.

In this assessor-blinded pilot RCT, 36 patients with stroke were allocated to either MT-TOT, TOT, or controls. Supervised interventions were performed for 45 minutes twice a week for four weeks, while home training took place for 20 minutes four times a week for four weeks. Qualitative interviews evaluated intervention acceptability. Outcomes of balance, mobility, ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, falls and health-related quality of life were assessed at baseline, post-intervention and 4-week follow-up.

Following the MT-TOT and TOT programmes, improvements were found in terms of balance, walking speed, mobility, dual-task mobility, fall rate, and active and passive ankle joint mobility. Several domains of health-related quality of life also improved. The feasibility of a larger RCT was confirmed

Publications:
Traxler, K., Baum, E., Klotz, E., Reindl, M., Schinabeck, F., & Seebacher, B. (2024). Combining specific task-oriented training with manual therapy to improve balance and mobility in patients after stroke: a mixed methods pilot randomised controlled trial. Disability and rehabilitation, 46(7), 1318–1329. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2023.2193432

Traxler, K., Schinabeck, F., Baum, E., Klotz, E., & Seebacher, B. (2021). Feasibility of a specific task-oriented training versus its combination with manual therapy on balance and mobility in people post stroke at the chronic stage: study protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial. Pilot and feasibility studies, 7(1), 146. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40814-021-00886-0

This study was conducted in collaboration with SRH University Heidelberg as part of a supervised master's thesis. The study investigated determinants of willingness to adopt telerehabilitation, willingness of technology use, core affect regarding using telerehabilitation, and digital competencies in rehabilitation professionals in Austria and Germany before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A survey was conducted before and during COVID-19, respectively, with three cohorts of rehabilitation professionals, 603 of whom were included in the study. Analysis revealed differences between Austria and Germany and before and during the pandemic for most outcomes. German residency, the pandemic, and a higher educational level were most important predictors of higher willingness to adopt telerehabilitation, willingness of technology use, digital competencies, and positive core affect. The pandemic increased most aspects of willingness to adopt telerehabilitation, willingness of technology use, digital competencies, and positive core affect. Results confirm that rehabilitation professionals with higher degrees are more prone to adopt innovations in healthcare

Publication:
Seebacher, B., Bergmann, E., Geimer, C., Kahraman, T., Reindl, M., & Diermayr, G. (2024). Factors influencing the willingness to adopt telerehabilitation among rehabilitation professionals in Austria and Germany: a survey comparing data before and during COVID-19. Disability and rehabilitation, 46(6), 1149–1157. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2023.2193428

This study was conducted in collaboration with University of Continuing Education Krems as part of a supervised master’s thesis.

This qualitative study explored satisfaction with family and patient education related to children with spina bifida, addressing gaps in the literature that often neglect family perspectives and interdisciplinary approaches.

Following a literature review, semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven relatives of children with spina bifida, six physiotherapists, and six paediatricians. Data were analysed using inductive reflexive thematic analysis.

Four key themes emerged from family interviews: (1) the need for continuous professional guidance; (2) the importance of organisational and conceptual support; (3) the value of empathetic communication; and (4) the wish for informed autonomy in decision-making. Expert interviews yielded four additional themes: (1) collaborative enhancement of structured education; (2) advocacy for specialisation; (3) acknowledgement of families’ proactive information seeking; and (4) the relevance of empowerment and resilience.

The findings underline the need for continuous, compassionate support for families of children with spina bifida. Developing structured educational resources, strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration, and fostering emotional resilience through informed participation may enhance family well-being and empower them to manage the condition effectively.

Publication:
Wutzlhofer, V., Mildner, S., & Seebacher, B. (2025). Family and patient education for children with spina bifida: A qualitative study. Health Education Journal, 00178969251364963. https://doi.org/10.1177/00178969251364963.

This study was conducted in collaboration with the Medical University of Graz, Departments of Neurology and Radiology (Austria); the Medical University of Innsbruck, Clinical Department of Neurology (Innsbruck, Austria); the Karl Landsteiner Institute of Interdisciplinary Rehabilitation Research (Muenster, Austria); the Neuroimaging (Division of Neuroscience), Neurology, and Neurorehabilitation Research Units of the IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute (Milan, Italy); the Vita-Salute San Raffaele University (Milan, Italy); and the Neurophysiology Service of the IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute (Milan, Italy).

Walking impairment is one of the most disabling symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Understanding the brain mechanisms underlying successful gait training may support the development of targeted rehabilitation strategies. This study examined brain activation changes associated with improvements in walking function following rhythmic-cued gait training.

Thirty-one people with MS with mild to moderate disability and 17 age- and sex-matched healthy controls underwent behavioural and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessments at baseline and four weeks later. People with MS completed a four-week actual and/or imagined gait training with rhythmic-auditory cueing, while healthy controls received no intervention. During functional MRI, participants performed bipedal ankle plantar- and dorsiflexion and corresponding motor imagery tasks. People with MS showing >5% improvement in walking distance on the 2-Minute Walk Test were classified as responders.

Responders and non-responders did not differ in demographic or baseline clinical measures. At baseline, brain activation patterns were similar across groups. After training, responders showed reduced activation in the premotor cortex, precuneus, and middle frontal gyrus during movement execution. Greater activation decreases in these regions correlated with larger walking improvements. No correlations were found for motor imagery tasks.

In conclusion, enhanced walking performance after rhythmic-cued gait training was linked to reduced activation in brain regions related to motor planning and attention, indicating more efficient neural recruitment following successful training

Publication:
Helmlinger B, Seebacher B, Ropele S, Hechenberger S, Heschl B, Reishofer G, Jordan S, Tinauer C, Wurth S, Valsasina P, Rocca MA, Filippi M, Ehling R, Reindl M, Khalil M, Deisenhammer F, Brenneis C, Enzinger C, Pinter D. Effects of rhythmic-cued gait training on gait-like task related brain activation in people with multiple sclerosis. J Neurol Sci. 2025 Apr 15;471:123426. doi: 10.1016/j.jns.2025.123426. Epub 2025 Feb 12. PMID: 39965306.

Greisberger, A., Klinger, M., Dopona, A., Riegler, M., Müller, V., Wilhelm, A., Wess, T., Nägele, A., Aftenberger, H., Kurz, K., & Seebacher, B. (2025, 2025/08/05). Recommendations for a core assessment set for neurological physiotherapy entry-level education in Austria - a multistage process including a Delphi study. BMC Med Educ, 25(1), 1145. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-025-07704-8.

Wutzlhofer, V., Mildner, S., & Seebacher, B. (2025). Family and patient education for children with spina bifida: A qualitative study. Health Education Journal, 00178969251364963. https://doi.org/10.1177/00178969251364963.

Kratz, E., Scheffer, J., Volc, D., & Seebacher, B. (2025, 2025/04/26). Comparing face-to-face and online LSVT®LOUD speech training using LSVT®Coach in patients with Parkinson’s disease: a pilot randomised controlled trial. BMC Neurology, 25(1), 183. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12883-025-04161-0

Goettfried, E., Barket, R., Hershman, R., Delazer, M., Auer, M., Berek, K., Ellmerer, P., Seebacher, B., Hegen, H., Di Pauli, F., Deisenhammer, F., & Zamarian, L. (2025). Face exploration, emotion recognition, and emotional enhancement of memory in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. PLOS ONE, 20(4), e0319967. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0319967

Helmlinger B, Seebacher B, Ropele S, Hechenberger S, Heschl B, Reishofer G, Jordan S, Tinauer C, Wurth S, Valsasina P, Rocca MA, Filippi M, Ehling R, Reindl M, Khalil M, Deisenhammer F, Brenneis C, Enzinger C, Pinter D. Effects of rhythmic-cued gait training on gait-like task related brain activation in people with multiple sclerosis. J Neurol Sci. 2025 Apr 15;471:123426. doi: 10.1016/j.jns.2025.123426. Epub 2025 Feb 12. PMID: 39965306.

Herren S, Seebacher B, Mildner S, Riederer Y, Pachmann U, Böckler NS, Niedecken S, Sgandurra SA, Bonati L, Hotz I, Schättin A, Jurt R, Brenneis C, Lenfert K, Behrendt F, Schmidlin S, Nacke L, Schuster-Amft C, Martin-Niedecken AL. Exergame (ExerG)-Based Physical-Cognitive Training for Rehabilitation in Adults With Motor and Balance Impairments: Usability Study. JMIR Serious Games. 2025 Feb 14;13:e66515. doi: 10.2196/66515. http://dx.doi.org/10.2196/66515

Herren, S., Seebacher, B., Mildner, S., Riederer, Y., Pachmann, U., Böckler, N. S., Niedecken, S., Alicia Sgandurra, S., Bonati, L., Hotz, I., Schättin, A., Jurt, R., Brenneis, C., Lenfert, K., Behrendt, F., Schmidlin, S., Nacke, L., Schuster-Amft, C., & Martin-Niedecken, A. L. (2025, Apr 4). Correction: Exergame (ExerG)-Based Physical-Cognitive Training for Rehabilitation in Adults With Motor and Balance Impairments: Usability Study. JMIR Serious Games, 13, e73405. https://doi.org/10.2196/73405

Muheim, J., Hotz, I., Kübler, F., Herren, S., Sollereder, S., Kruszewski, K., Martin‑Niedecken, A. L., Schättin, A., Behrendt, F., Böckler, S., Schmidlin, S., Jurt, R., Niedecken, S., Riederer, Y., Brenneis, C., Leo H. Bonati, L., Seebacher, B. & Schuster‑Amft, C. ExerG – an exergame-based training device for the rehabilitation of older adults: a functional model usability study. BMC Geriatr 24, 1029 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-024-05617-7

Kammerhofer, K., Mildner, S., Sengoelge, M., & Seebacher, B. (2024). Manual handling and back pain among health care professionals in neurological inpatient and outpatient settings: a mixed methods study. Contemporary Nurse, 1–16. https://doi.org/10.1080/10376178.2024.2445271

Hotz, I., Ernst, N., Brenneis, C. et al. Barriers and facilitators to conducting randomised controlled trials within routine care of neurorehabilitation centres: a qualitative study. BMC Med Res Methodol 24, 258 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12874-024-02386-0

Fasching B, Mildner S, Fink F, Wanitschek A, Langweil N, Monschein T, Berger T, Leutmezer F, Seebacher B, Hotz I, Brenneis C. MuSic Moves-co-creating a music-supported exercise programme with and for people with multiple sclerosis: a bicentre participatory mixed methods study. BMJ Open. 2024 Nov 24;14(11):e091168. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2024-091168. Erratum in: BMJ Open. 2024 Dec 5;14(12):e091168corr1. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2024-091168corr1

Meier, P., Mayer-Suess, L., Kiechl, S., Pachmann, U., Greimann, R., Kofler, M., Brenneis, C., Grams, A., Steiger, R., & Seebacher, B. (2024, 2024-August-05). Recovery of balance and walking in people with ataxia after acute cerebral stroke: study protocol for a prospective, monocentric, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial [Study Protocol]. Frontiers in Stroke, 3. https://doi.org/10.3389/fstro.2024.1388891

Seebacher B, Mildner S, Monschein T, Schillerwein-Kral C, Bsteh G, Fasching B, Voggenberger L, Ziai J, Mills RJ, Horton MC, Brenneis C, Berger T, Leutmezer F, Seidel S. German translation, cultural adaptation for Austria, and validation of the Neurological Sleep Index-Multiple Sclerosis. J Clin Sleep Med. 2024 Dec 1;20(12):1923-1935. https://jcsm.aasm.org/doi/10.5664/jcsm.11286

Seebacher B, Helmlinger B, Hotz I, Pinter D, Ehling R, Enzinger C, Deisenhammer F, Brenneis C. Actual and imagined music-cued gait training for people with multiple sclerosis: a multicentre qualitative study. BMJ Open. 2024 Jul 11;14(7):e086555. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2024-086555

Seebacher B, Helmlinger B, Pinter D, Heschl B, Ehling R, Hechenberger S, Reindl M, Khalil M, Enzinger C, Deisenhammer F, Brenneis Md C. Actual and Imagined Music-Cued Gait Training in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Double-Blind Randomized Parallel Multicenter Trial. Neurorehabil Neural Repair. 2024 Aug;38(8):555-569. https://doi.org/10.1177/15459683241260724

Rausch, L. K., Birklbauer, A., Federolf, P., Hecksteden, A., Hofmann, P., Niebauer, J., Reich, B., Rieder, F., Ruin, S., Scharhag, J., Seebacher, B., Treff, G., Tschan, H., Wessner, B., Würth, S., & Müller, E. (2024, 06/14). Position statement regarding the current standing of exercise therapy in Austria (Positionspapier zur Situation der Trainingstherapie in Österreich). Current Issues in Sport Science (CISS), 9(1), 001. https://doi.org/10.36950/2024.9ciss001

Mildner S, Hotz I, Kübler F, Rausch L, Stampfer-Kountchev M, Panzl J, Brenneis C, Seebacher B. Effects of activity-oriented physiotherapy with and without eye movement training on dynamic balance, functional mobility, and eye movements in patients with Parkinson's disease: An assessor-blinded randomised controlled pilot trial. PLoS One. 2024 Jun 14;19(6):e0304788. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0304788

Hotz I, Mildner S, Stampfer-Kountchev M, Slamik B, Blättner C, Türtscher E, Kübler F, Höfer C, Panzl J, Rücker M, Christian Brenneis C, Seebacher B. (2024). Robot-assisted gait training in patients with various neurological diseases: a mixed methods feasibility study. PLoS One. 2024 Aug 27;19(8):e0307434. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0307434

Ehling R, Seebacher B, Brenneis C. Letter to the editor: Mobile health interventions in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review. Mult Scler. (2024) Apr;30(4-5):618-619. https://doi.org/10.1177/13524585241234789

Wanitschek A, Seebacher B, Muehlbacher A, Brenneis C, Ehling R. (2024). Comparison of patient-reported outcomes of physical activity and accelerometry in people with multiple sclerosis and ambulatory impairment: A cross-sectional study. Mult Scler Relat Disord. Mar 1;85:105532. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msard.2024.105532

Seebacher B, Geimer C, Neu J, Schwarz M, Diermayr G. (2024). Identifying central elements of the therapeutic alliance in the setting of telerehabilitation: A qualitative study. PLoS One. Mar 8;19(3):e0299909. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0299909

Traxler K, Baum E, Klotz E, Reindl M, Schinabeck F, Seebacher B. (2024). Combining specific task-oriented training with manual therapy to improve balance and mobility in patients after stroke: a mixed methods pilot randomised controlled trial. Disabil Rehabil. Apr;46(7):1318-1329. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2023.2193432

Seebacher B, Bergmann E, Geimer C, Kahraman T, Reindl M, Diermayr G. (2024). Factors influencing the willingness to adopt telerehabilitation among rehabilitation professionals in Austria and Germany: a survey comparing data before and during COVID-19. Disabil Rehabil. Mar;46(6):1149-1157. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2023.2193428

Seebacher B, Horton MC, Reindl M, Brenneis C, Ehling R, Deisenhammer F, Mills RJ. (2023). Psychometrische Prüfung des deutschsprachigen „Neurologischen Fragebogens zur Müdigkeit bei Multipler Sklerose (NFI-MS-G)“ bei Rehabilitanden mit Multipler Sklerose [Psychometric Evaluation of the 'German Neurological Fatigue Index for Multiple Sclerosis (NFI-MS-G)' in a Sample of Rehabilitation Patients with Multiple Sclerosis]. Rehabilitation (Stuttg). Feb;62(1):31-39. German. https://doi.org/10.1055/a-1903-4483

Ehling, R., B. Seebacher, A. Harsányi, N. Ganzbiller, S. Papez, B. Haider, D. Hoertenhuber, G. Kranz, R. Tarasiewicz, J. Spatt, H. Moser, W. Klein, C. Barth, W. Kubik, E. Kronberger, A. Winkler and C. Brenneis. (2022). Successful long-term management of spasticity in people with multiple sclerosis using a software application: Results from a randomized-controlled, multicenter study. Eur J Neurol. https://doi.org/10.1111/ene.15271

Ringgenberg N, Mildner S, Hapig M, Hermann S, Kruszewski K, Martin-Niedecken AL, Rogers K, Schättin A, Behrendt F, Böckler S, Schmidlin S, Jurt R, Niedecken S, Brenneis C, Bonati LH, Schuster-Amft C, Seebacher B. (2022). ExerG: adapting an exergame training solution to the needs of older adults using focus group and expert interviews. J Neuroeng Rehabil. Aug 16;19(1):89. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12984-022-01063-x

Seebacher, B., B. Helmlinger, D. Pinter, R. Ehling, H. Hegen, S. Ropele, G. Reishofer, C. Enzinger, C. Brenneis and F. Deisenhammer. (2022). Effects of actual and imagined music-cued gait training on motor functioning and brain activity in people with multiple sclerosis: protocol of a randomised parallel multicentre trial. BMJ Open, 12(2), e056666. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056666

Seebacher B, Reindl M, Kahraman T. Factors and strategies affecting motor imagery ability in people with multiple sclerosis: a systematic review. Physiotherapy. 2023 Mar;118:64-78. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physio.2022.09.005

Wanner, M., Schönherr, G., Kiechl, S., Knoflach, M., Müller, C., & Seebacher, B. (2022). Feasibility of an individualised, task-oriented, video-supported home exercise programme for arm function in patients in the subacute phase after stroke: protocol of a randomised controlled pilot study. BMJ Open, 12(1), e051504-e051504. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051504

Rausch L, Puchner B, Fuchshuber J, Seebacher B, Löffler-Ragg J, Pramsohler S, Netzer N, Faulhaber M. The Effects of Exercise Therapy Moderated by Sex in Rehabilitation of COVID-19. Int J Sports Med. 2022 Nov;43(12):1043-1051. https://doi.org/10.1055/a-1866-6092. Epub 2022 Jun 1.

Traxler, K., Schinabeck, F., Baum, E. et al. Feasibility of a specific task-oriented training versus its combination with manual therapy on balance and mobility in people post stroke at the chronic stage: study protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial. Pilot Feasibility Stud 7, 146 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40814-021-00886-0

Karakas, H., Seebacher, B. and Kahraman, T. (2021). Technology-Based Rehabilitation in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Narrative Review. J Mult Scler Res, 1(3), 54-68. https://doi.org/10.4274/jmsr.galenos.2021.2021-10-3

Schanda K, Peschl P, Lerch M, Seebacher B, Mindorf S, Ritter N, Probst M, Hegen H, Di Pauli F, Wendel EM, Lechner C, Baumann M, Mariotto S, Ferrari S, Saiz A, Farrell M, Leite MIS, Irani SR, Palace J, Lutterotti A, Kümpfel T, Vukusic S, Marignier R, Waters P, Rostasy K, Berger T, Probst C, Höftberger R, Reindl M. Differential Binding of Autoantibodies to MOG Isoforms in Inflammatory Demyelinating Diseases. Neurol Neuroimmunol Neuroinflamm. 2021 Jun 15;8(5):e1027. https://doi.org/10.1212/NXI.0000000000001027

Kahraman T, Kaya DO, Isik T, Gultekin SC, Seebacher B. Feasibility of motor imagery and effects of activating and relaxing practice on autonomic functions in healthy young adults: A randomised, controlled, assessor-blinded, pilot trial. PLoS One. 2021 Jul 13;16(7):e0254666. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0254666

Seebacher, B., Mills, R. J., Reindl, M., Zamarian, L., Kuisma, R., Kircher, S., Brenneis, C., Ehling, R., Deisenhammer, F. (2021). German translation, cultural adaptation and validation of the Unidimensional Self-Efficacy Scale for Multiple Sclerosis. BMC Neurology, 17;21(1):163. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12883-021-02183-y

Maguire R, Hynes S, Seebacher B, Block VJ, Zackowski KM, Jonsdottir J, Finlayson M, Plummer P, Freeman J, Giesser B, von Geldern G, Ploughman M. Research interrupted: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on multiple sclerosis research in the field of rehabilitation and quality of life. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin. 2021 Aug 26;7(3):20552173211038030. https://doi.org/10.1177/20552173211038030

Seebacher, B., Mills, R. J., Reindl, M., Zamarian, L., Kuisma, R., Kircher, S., Brenneis, C., Ehling, R., Deisenhammer, F. (2019). German translation, cultural adaption and validation of the unidimensional self-efficacy scale for multiple sclerosis: a study protocol. BMJ Open, 9(8), e029565. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2019-029565

Seebacher B, Kuisma R, Glynn A, Berger T. Effects and mechanisms of differently cued and non-cued motor imagery in people with multiple sclerosis: A randomised controlled trial. Mult Scler. 2019 Oct;25(12):1593-1604. https://doi.org/10.1177/1352458518795332

Raccagni C, Goebel G, Gaßner H, Granata R, Ndayisaba JP, Seebacher B, Schoenherr G, Mitterhuber J, Hendriks P, Kaindlstorfer C, Eschlboeck S, Fanciulli A, Krismer F, Seppi K, Poewe W, Bloem BR, Klucken J, Wenning GK. Physiotherapy improves motor function in patients with the Parkinson variant of multiple system atrophy: A prospective trial. Parkinsonism Relat Disord. 2019 Oct;67:60-65. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.parkreldis.2019.09.026

Seebacher B, Kuisma R, Glynn A, Berger T (2018). Exploring cued and non-cued motor imagery interventions in people with multiple sclerosis: a randomised feasibility trial and reliability study. Arch Physiother. Mar 2;8:6. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40945-018-0045-0

Seebacher B, Kuisma R, Glynn A, Berger T. The effect of rhythmic-cued motor imagery on walking, fatigue and quality of life in people with multiple sclerosis: A randomised controlled trial. Mult Scler. 2017 Feb;23(2):286-296. https://doi.org/10.1177/1352458516644058

Seebacher B, Kuisma R, Glynn A, Berger T. Rhythmic cued motor imagery and walking in people with multiple sclerosis: a randomised controlled feasibility study. Pilot Feasibility Stud. 2015 Jul 11;1:25. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40814-015-0021-3