Feasibility study of high-intensity interval training to reduce cardiometabolic disease risks in individuals with acute spinal cord injury

BMJ Open, 2023 · DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-068507 · Published: January 1, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Cardiovascular Science Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study aims to determine if high-intensity exercise is feasible for individuals with recent spinal cord injuries (SCI) to improve their heart and metabolic health. The study involves a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program using arm cycle ergometers, comparing it to standard care over 18 weeks. The researchers will assess cardiorespiratory fitness, blood sugar control, lipid profiles, and body composition, along with the acceptability of the intervention.

Study Duration

18 weeks

Participants

40 individuals with acute SCI (20 intervention, 20 control)

Evidence Level

Feasibility study, two parallel-arm, randomised

Key Findings

1
The study will determine the proportion of eligible patients who agree to participate in the research.
2
The research will determine the percentage of patients who complete the study and, for the intervention group, the percentage of exercise sessions completed.
3
The study will use open-ended surveys and interview data for patient and staff groups to determine the acceptability of the study.

Research Summary

This feasibility study investigates the use of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to improve cardiometabolic health in individuals with acute spinal cord injury (SCI). The study involves randomizing participants into HIIT and control groups, with the HIIT group performing supervised exercise on an arm cycle ergometer three times per week. The primary goal is to assess the feasibility of conducting a full Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) by evaluating recruitment rates, retention, adherence, and acceptability of the intervention.

Practical Implications

Prevent Cardiometabolic Decline

The study aims to prevent the deterioration of cardiometabolic health and physical function in the acute phase following SCI.

Inform Future RCT Design

The results will inform the design of a larger, multicenter RCT to evaluate the impact of exercise on cardiometabolic health.

Develop Training Resources

The study seeks to develop training resources for intervention delivery in a subsequent multicenter RCT.

Study Limitations

1
The study is conducted in a single SCI unit, potentially limiting the generalizability of findings.
2
Complications like infection and depression in acute SCI can affect participation and outcome measures.
3
Blinding is not achievable in this intervention study.

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Feasibility study of high-­intensity interval training to reduce cardiometabolic disease risks in individuals with acute spinal cord injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Prevent Cardiometabolic Decline

Inform Future RCT Design

Develop Training Resources

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Feasibility study of high-­intensity interval training to reduce cardiometabolic disease risks in individuals with acute spinal cord injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Prevent Cardiometabolic Decline

Inform Future RCT Design

Develop Training Resources

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Feasibility study of high-intensity interval training to reduce cardiometabolic disease risks in individuals with acute spinal cord injury

Feasibility study of high-intensity interval training to reduce cardiometabolic disease risks in individuals with acute spinal cord injury