SCIPA Com: outcomes from the spinal cord injury and physical activity in the community intervention

Abstract

Study design: Quasi-experimental translational study with pre-and post-measures. Objectives: To determine the effects of the Spinal Cord Injury and Physical Activity in the Community (SCIPA Com) intervention on leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and associated outcomes among participants with spinal cord injury (SCI). Setting: Young Men's Christian Associations and community fitness centers, Australia and New Zealand. Methods: SCIPA Com consisted of three stages: (i) training exercise professionals via the Train the Trainers Spinal Cord Injury course; (ii) implementation of supervised physical activity programs twice a week for 30 to 60 min for 8 to 12 weeks; and (iii) follow-up assessments on health outcomes over 9 months. Participants with SCI were classified as active or inactive by baseline LTPA levels and linear mixed methods compared LTPA between groups over time.Results: Sixty-four community-dwelling participants with SCI completed customized physical activity programs. Compared with baseline, there were significant improvements in LTPA (26 min per day, 95% confidence interval (CI): 16.6-35.4; Po0.001), functional goals (2, 95% CI: 1.72-2.37; Po0.001), self-esteem (1.5, 95% CI: 0.72-2.27; Po0.001) and overall quality of life (Po0.05). Over time, LTPA participation was greater among the active compared with the inactive group, although LTPA levels among the inactive improved compared with baseline. Conclusions: Significant improvements in LTPA participation and health outcomes were observed, especially among inactive individuals with SCI. SCIPA Com is an ecologically valid intervention based on training and support provided to community exercise professionals who, although new to adapted training, delivered effective physical activity programs for those at risk of inactivity.

Community exercise programing and its potential influence on quality of life and functional reach for individuals with spinal cord injury

“…Improvements in selfesteem, QoL, and fitness levels have been reported following community exercise programs in individuals with SCI. 16,17,27,28,[30][31][32] This study revealed a statistically significant increase in QoL, as demonstrated by the LiSAT-9 outcome measure. Garshick et al found a similar positive association between prescribed exercise programs and a higher satisfaction of life for individuals with SCI.…”

“…37 Compared to the able bodied community, individuals with SCI tend to have a lower QoL and lack accessible and targeted community programs. [15][16][17] Additionally, individuals with SCI have increasing life expectancy, as well as, increasing risk of secondary health conditions. 1,10 Community-based programs, such as Spinal Mobility, address the aforementioned barriers to exercise at no cost to participants and may be the framework for providing exercise opportunities for the aging population.…”

“…Studies have shown that participation in exercise activities has correlated with positive changes in physical functioning and QoL in individuals with SCI. [14][15][16][17] Bochkezanian completed a systematic review on exercise interventions in individuals with SCI and revealed that much of the literature is of low quality, however, a few studies on muscle strengthening and QoL demonstrated positive results. 14 Although the literature remains limited, de Oliveira et al demonstrated improvements in functional goals, self-esteem and QoL following an 8 to 12 week exercise program performed twice weekly.…”

“…14 Although the literature remains limited, de Oliveira et al demonstrated improvements in functional goals, self-esteem and QoL following an 8 to 12 week exercise program performed twice weekly. 16 Additionally, Van de Scheer et al indicated that exercise could improve fitness and cardiometabolic health in individuals with chronic SCI. 17 In individuals with SCI, environmental factors such as help at home, accessible transportation, and the natural environment can all influence QoL.…”

SCIPA Full-On: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Intensive Whole-Body Exercise and Upper Body Exercise After Spinal Cord Injury

“…31 Many barriers exist to participation in leisure time physical activity by people with SCI, including motivation, finances, and accessibility to specialized programs or equipment. 32 Programs to overcome some of these barriers are now being developed 28 and are similar to the exercise program delivered to UBE in this study.…”