Lifestyle physical activity for individuals with spinal cord injury: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of a lifestyle physical activity program for people with spinal cord injury (SCI).


METHODS
Sixteen nonexercising adult volunteers with SCI participated in a single group pre-post-test of the "Be Active in Life Program" comprising stage-matched educational materials, home visit by a nurse, construction of a personal plan to increase activity, and four follow-up phone calls. Program acceptability, stage of change, barriers to health-promoting activities, abilities for health practices, health, depression, and muscle strength were rated. Physical activity was monitored using actigraphy and a self-report record.


RESULTS
Participants rated the program positively, although some preferred a structured exercise approach. Eighty-one percent of participants progressed in stage of change and 60% increased physical activity. There were significant changes in motivational barriers, exercise self-efficacy, self-rated health, and muscle strength.


CONCLUSIONS
Lifestyle physical activity is feasible and acceptable and could be effective in promoting greater physical activity among people with SCI.
Warms
Catherine A
CA
School of Nursing, Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Systems, University of Washington, Seattle 98195-7266, USA. cwarms@u.washington.edu
Belza
Basia L
BL
Whitney
JoAnne D
JD
Mitchell
Pamela H
PH
Stiens
Steven A
SA
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D006233:Persons with Disabilities; D015444:Exercise; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology*; D014861:Washington