Overview
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With many patients with a spinal cord injury experiencing physical deconditioning, we aim to compare the levels of exercise adherence using a customized phone application vs a non-customized application. Some participants will receive E-coaching depending on exercise adherence and we will also compare the effects of the frequency to which participants receive e-coaching.
The objective of this study is to conduct a proof-of-concept SMART study to determine the most effective adaptive intervention to improve exercise adherence and health and functional outcomes by comparing effects of two app-based interventions on adherence to exercise guidelines: customized exercise + non-interactive app (Group 1) vs. customized exercise + interactive, customized app (Group 2). The effects of two augmented interventions on adherence to exercise guidelines will also be collected: E-coaching administered at different intervals throughout 3 months (if needed).
This study requires at least 3 in person visits to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, located in Chicago, IL. Eligibility will be determined through a phone screening with a member of the study team. A Sequential, Multiple Assignment, Randomized Trial (SMART) will be conducted with a timeline of up to 6 months consisting of initial randomization into Group 1 or Group 2 (interactive vs non-interactive app) in addition to an in person visit with the performance of a physical outcome measures. We will observe exercise adherence through the assigned phone app for 3 months. After the initial 3 months, physical outcomes in the lab will be performed again and some participants may receive e-coaching at varying intervals (x times per week) depending on level of adherence. Interventions will be maintained for another 3 months. In person visits to perform physical outcome measures will occur at intake, 12 weeks and 24 weeks.
Study Population
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- Individual with diagnosis of SCI, complete (only paraplegia), or incomplete cervical C3- C4 and below
- 18-80 years of age
- English-speaking
- Use a wheelchair or walk with or without assistive equipment as primary means of mobility
- At least 1-year post-SCI
- Not adhering to SCI-specific exercise guidelines as ascertained by self-report or during structured phone interview
- Interested in increasing exercise levels
- Ownership of a smartphone that can be used for the study and has a data plan
- Willing to download the study apps
Study Personnel
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Allen Heinemann, PhD
Director, Center for Rehabilitation Outcomes Research Professor, Department of PM&R, Feinberg School of Medicine, NorthwesternMentioned Profile
Arun Jayaraman, PT, PhD
Executive Director, Technology & Innovation Hub (tiHUB); Director, Max Näder Center for Rehabilitation Technologies & Outcomes Research
Funding Source
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The project is supported by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), USA (grant no. 90SIMS0015).