Q15 A pilot study of an exercise intervention to improve motor function in people with Huntington's disease (HD). (29th August 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Khalil, H; Quinn, L; van Dursen, R; Dawes, H; Playle, R; Rosser, A; Busse, M
• Is Part Of: Journal of neurology, neurosurgery and psychiatry. Volume 83(2012)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A59
• Page End: A59
• Publication Date: 2012-08-29
• Subjects: Huntington's disease -- exercise -- mobility; Neurology -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2012-303524.185
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-3050

Abstract

Abstract : Background: There is evidence that exercise delivered in home and community settings can benefit people with some neurodegenerative conditions; however, it is not known if or how exercise affects people with HD. The aim of this study was to explore feasibility, acceptability and benefits of a home-based exercise programme in people with HD. Methods: 25 subjects were allocated to either intervention (home based exercise; n=13) or control (usual care; n=12) groups. The intervention group received an exercise DVD and were asked to do the exercises at home 3 times per week for 8 weeks. Participants were assessed at baseline and immediately post intervention. Outcomes included measures of gait, balance, function, physical activity and quality of life. Analysis of covariance was used to compare follow-up scores across groups after adjustment for differences at baseline. Effect sizes were calculated for outcome measures based on differences in change scores between groups. Process interviews were conducted at the end of the study to determine acceptability of the intervention to participants. Results: Adherence rates were high (80% of participants completed at least 79.2% of the sessions). Significant differences between groups were also observed in gait speed, balance, function and level of physical activity. Effect sizes were large (>0.8) for the majority of the outcomes. Qualitative data from the intervention group suggested high levels of acceptability of the programme, with positive impact on mood and mobility. Conclusion: Preliminary findings from this pilot work demonstrated that a short-term exercise programme is acceptable and beneficial to people with HD. Findings from this study support methodology and sample size calculations for future studies.