The feasibility of online video calling to engage patients with cystic fibrosis in exercise training

Abstract

Introduction Physical activity, including structured exercise, is an essential component in the management of cystic fibrosis. The use of telehealth such as video-calling may be a useful method for the delivery of exercise and physical activity interventions, though the feasibility of this remains unknown. Methods Nine patients with cystic fibrosis (three female, six male, 30.9 ± 8.7 years) volunteered to participate. Participants completed an eight-week exercise training intervention conducted via Skype, using personalised exercises, with all sessions supervised by an exercise therapist. Feasibility was assessed by demand, implementation, practicality and acceptability. Changes in anthropometric, pulmonary, physical activity and quality of life variables were also assessed. Results Two male participants withdrew from the study, citing lack of available time. The remaining participants found use of Skype useful, with a mean satisfaction rating of 9/10, and three participants requesting to continue the sessions beyond the duration of the study. Mean compliance with sessions was 68%, with mean duration of sessions being 20 min. A total of 25% of calls suffered from technical issues such as video or audio lags. Anthropometric, pulmonary, physical activity and quality of life variables remained unchanged over the course of the study period. Discussion The use of Skype to deliver an exercise intervention to patients withcystic fibrosis was found to be technologically feasible, and acceptable among participants. Findings have implications for clinical practice and could allow care teams to engage patients remotely in exercise. Further research is required to assess the efficacy of this modality on increasing physical activity and associated health outcomes.

Exercise testing and exercise training within cystic fibrosis centres across Australia and New Zealand: what is considered important and what is current practice?

“…Finally, apart from staffing, one of the main limitations to implementing an outpatient exercise training programme was related to the risk of cross‐infection between people with CF. Considering emerging methods of exercise testing and training supervision, such as telehealth, which was reported in one centre, is likely to be an important alternative to reduce the risk of cross infection.…”

Effects of rehabilitation methods on lower-limb muscle function and functional performance in patients with cystic fibrosis: A systematic review

“…43 In this respect, telemonitoring could also be a promising option. 44 No major differences in rehabilitation protocols emerged between school-aged children or adolescents/adults. Accordingly, adult guidelines for aerobic and resistance training generally apply to children and adolescents.…”

Recommendations to Improve Physical Activity Prescription for the Cystic Fibrosis Population: An Irish Perspective

“…Incorporating components of e-health that are convenient and easily accessible for the patient has the potential to change how they engages with healthcare services, and reduce the burden of care and costs associated with healthcare delivery (28). Previous research suggests that the use of an internet-based program to monitor and encourage PA participation, is both feasible and acceptable among adults with CF (29).…”