Reducing Sitting Time After Stroke: A Phase II Safety and Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Stroke survivors often experience prolonged sedentary behavior, increasing risks for secondary health complications.
• Strategies to reduce sitting time are crucial for improving functional recovery and overall well-being in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety, feasibility, and effectiveness of a program designed to reduce sitting time in individuals who have had a stroke.
• To assess changes in sedentary behavior, including prolonged sitting bouts, standing, and stepping.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 35 stroke survivors was conducted in a community setting.
• Participants received either a 'sit less, move more' intervention or an attention-matched control intervention (calcium for bone health) over seven weeks.
• Objective measures included inclinometry and accelerometry to quantify time spent sitting, standing, and stepping, alongside adverse event monitoring.

Main Results:

• The intervention protocol was found to be safe and feasible, with high adherence rates.
• Both intervention and control groups demonstrated significant reductions in daily sitting time and prolonged sitting bouts.
• Participants in both groups also increased their time spent standing and stepping post-intervention.

Conclusions:

• The developed protocol for reducing sitting time in stroke survivors is safe and feasible.
• While both groups showed improvements in reducing sedentary behavior, the intervention group did not achieve superior outcomes.
• The use of attention-matched controls is recommended for future clinical trials, as it may contribute to positive outcomes in all participants.