Online neuropilates classes in chronic stroke patients: Protocol for a randomised controlled feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Stroke survivors often experience low physical activity and barriers to exercise.
• Online exercise programs offer a potential solution, but their safety and feasibility for stroke survivors are understudied.
• Neuropilates, a modified Pilates for neurological conditions, may improve strength, balance, and proprioception in stroke survivors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and safety of a 6-week online, remotely supervised neuropilates program for chronic stroke survivors.
• To compare online neuropilates with online general exercise and unsupervised home exercise.
• To evaluate secondary outcomes including balance, gait, tone, and quality of life.

Main Methods:

• A single-assessor blinded, randomized controlled feasibility study.
• Recruited 20 adults at least 6 months post-stroke, post-formal rehabilitation.
• Compared a 6-week online neuropilates program to online general exercise and unsupervised home exercise.

Main Results:

• The study assessed patient tolerance, adherence, adverse events, recruitment, and retention.
• Secondary outcomes measured balance, gait, tone, and quality of life at baseline, post-program, and 3-month follow-up.
• A blinded physiotherapist conducted all assessments.

Conclusions:

• This study provides initial evidence for the feasibility and safety of online neuropilates for stroke survivors.
• Online neuropilates may offer a promising avenue to enhance physical activity and improve outcomes in this population.
• Further research is warranted to confirm these findings in larger trials.