Effects of Paraplegia Fitness Integrated Training on Physical Function and Exercise Self-Efficacy and Adherence Among Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury

Ann Rehabil Med, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.5535/arm.21127 · Published: February 28, 2022

Simple Explanation

This study looks at how a special exercise program called PARAFiT affects people with spinal cord injuries. The PARAFiT program combines exercise with health education. The study found that people in the PARAFiT program had better exercise self-confidence, fitness, and were more likely to stick with the program than those who only received regular physical therapy. The results suggest that combining exercise and education can help people with spinal cord injuries stay active and healthy.

Study Duration

8 weeks supervised, 8 weeks unsupervised

Participants

44 individuals with spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Nonrandomized single-blind study

Key Findings

1
The PARAFiT group showed a higher level of physical activity, although the difference was not statistically significant.
2
The intervention group had significantly better exercise self-efficacy and cardiorespiratory fitness compared to the control group.
3
Exercise adherence was higher in the intervention group during both the supervised and unsupervised periods.

Research Summary

This study investigated the effects of the Paraplegia Fitness Integrated Training (PARAFiT) program on individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). The PARAFiT program, consisting of circuit-based interval training, progressive upper limb resistance training, and health education sessions, was compared to conventional physiotherapy. The study concluded that the PARAFiT program enhanced physical activity, exercise self-efficacy, physical fitness, and exercise adherence among patients with SCI.

Practical Implications

Enhanced Rehabilitation Programs

Integrating health education with physical exercise can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with SCI.

Improved Exercise Adherence

The PARAFiT program's structure promotes better exercise adherence, even during unsupervised periods.

Long-Term Monitoring

Future studies should focus on home-based exercises and regular monitoring to sustain long-term adherence and physical activity.

Study Limitations

1
The evaluation of physical fitness was challenging after the participants were discharged from the supervised program.
2
Participants were unable to return to the center for physical fitness assessment after they returned home.
3
A limitation of this study is the evaluation of physical fitness, which was almost impossible after the participants were discharged from the in-patient rehabilitation

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