Tele-Exercise for Spinal Cord Injury
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The objective of this study is to examine the efficacy of an integrated, participant-centered tele-health physical activity program for individuals with SCI on psychological and social factors through a parallel mixed-methods design approach. We will examine changes in psychological (self-efficacy, self-esteem, exercise outcome expectations, depression, positive affect and well-being, quality of life) and social factors (participation and satisfaction with social roles and activities, activity engagement) following participation in an 8-week integrated group tele-exercise health and wellness physical activity program, with retention assessed at 8-weeks following completion (16 weeks from baseline). We will also complete small group interviews with all participants to understand participant experiences of, response to, and recommendations before and following participation in group tele-exercise program. To date, there is extremely limited evidence for the efficacy of psychological and social well-being of remotely delivered community-based exercise to individuals with SCI. A pilot effectiveness trial of a tele-exercise health and wellness program will be conducted using a mixed methods design with a randomized waitlist control group. Quantitative and qualitative data collection is sequential in nature and other data are collected simultaneously. Individuals with SCI (living with injury 12 months or longer) will be recruited based on existing partnerships locally and nationally. To assess limited effectiveness, we aim to enroll 35 individuals with SCI. Recruitment of these participants will stem from the investigator's ongoing community partnership with local and national partners. The tele-exercise health \& wellness program will consist of virtual group class, twice per week, intended to generate physical confidence and strength for individuals living with SCI. Each session will be co-led with by an individual living with SCI.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It is best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your healthcare provider.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Tele-Exercise for Spinal Cord Injury?
Is tele-exercise safe for people with spinal cord injury?
How is the tele-exercise treatment for spinal cord injury different from other treatments?
Tele-exercise is unique because it allows individuals with spinal cord injury to participate in group exercise sessions remotely, overcoming barriers like transportation and accessibility that often prevent regular exercise. This approach is particularly beneficial during times of social isolation, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and provides a way to maintain physical activity without needing in-person sessions.12356
Research Team
Margaret Finley, PhD
Principal Investigator
Drexel University
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults aged 18-75 with spinal cord injury (SCI) who've lived with the injury for at least a year. They must be able to participate in virtual classes, have some shoulder mobility, and not be in structured rehabilitation. Excluded are those with recent fractures or hospitalization, active pressure ulcers, severe vision loss, or other neurological conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pre-Intervention
Participants complete semi-structured interviews or small focus groups and quantitative measures are obtained
Tele-exercise Intervention
Participants engage in a group tele-exercise class twice per week for 8 weeks, focusing on mind-body practices tailored to individuals with SCI
Post-Intervention Assessment
Participants complete post-intervention measures including leisure time physical activity and quality of life assessments
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for retention of physical activity and quality of life improvements
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Group tele-exercise
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Drexel University
Lead Sponsor
The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation
Collaborator
Pennsylvania Department of Health
Collaborator