Feasibility of an Internet-Based Intervention to Promote Exercise for People With Spinal Cord Injury: Observational Pilot Study

JMIR Rehabil Assist Technol, 2021 · DOI: 10.2196/24276 · Published: June 9, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Telehealth & Digital Health

Simple Explanation

This study explores whether a web-based program can help people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) increase their physical activity. The program, called WOWii, provides online information, exercise equipment, and group video meetings to support participants. The pilot study found that participants were engaged with the program, suggesting it's feasible for a larger trial.

Study Duration

4 Weeks

Participants

10 participants with SCI

Evidence Level

Pilot Study

Key Findings

1
Participants attended an average of 83% of the weekly group videoconferences.
2
85% of participants completed the web-based module activities.
3
Overall engagement across all components of the program averaged 75%.

Research Summary

This pilot study assessed the feasibility of using a web-based program (WOWii) to deliver a physical activity intervention to individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). The study found high levels of engagement among participants, suggesting the intervention is feasible for a full randomized controlled trial. Feedback from the pilot study informed improvements made to the program for the full randomized controlled trial, including a more robust peer mentoring component.

Practical Implications

Accessible Intervention

The web-based intervention can overcome transportation barriers and reach individuals with SCI who may have limited access to traditional exercise facilities.

Social Support

Group videoconferencing can provide social support and motivation for people with SCI to increase physical activity.

Future Research

The results support further research into the effectiveness of web-based interventions for promoting physical activity among people with SCI.

Study Limitations

1
Lack of racial diversity among the participants.
2
Initial problems with Polar watch data exports limited the ability to accurately measure exercise in minutes.
3
The study was a small pilot study with only 10 participants.

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