From the body and through the body: A multidimensional assessment of functional body representations, interoceptive dimensions, and quality of life in multiple sclerosis

Objective: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition that affects physical, cognitive, and emotional functions, significantly impacting quality of life (QoL) even in its early stages. Beyond the typical motor, sensory, visual, and brainstem disorders usually assessed by the Expanded Disability Status Scale, MS also impairs functional body representations and interoception, diminishing overall functioning and QoL. In this study, we aim to explore the relationships between functional body representations, interoceptive processes, and major clinical outcomes, including physical disability (Expanded Disability Status Scale), fatigue severity, and health-related QoL in people with MS. Method: Fifty-nine people with MS were assessed with tasks assessing body representations, action-oriented and nonaction-oriented, and interoception. Results: Action-oriented and nonaction-oriented body representation performance was significantly associated with fatigue severity (r = −.337 and r = .301, respectively; ps ≤ .021), suggesting that body representations are particularly vulnerable to perceived fatigue in MS. In addition, fatigue severity and bowel/vesical dysfunction were positively correlated with the tendency to overestimate one’s own interoceptive capabilities (r = .335 and r = .311, respectively; ps ≤ .017), highlighting the role of MS-related disability in interoception. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of integrating assessments of body representation and interoception into clinical practice to guide therapeutic interventions aimed at improving people with MS outcomes and QoL. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved) Question: What is the relationship between body representations, interoception, and major clinical outcomes in multiple sclerosis? Findings: Altered body representations and interoceptive overestimation were linked to greater fatigue and disability in multiple sclerosis. Importance: These findings highlight the relevance of body awareness processes to patient functioning and quality of life. Next Steps: Future studies should include body representation and interoception measures to guide targeted interventions. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)