MITO-VATION: Feasibility of a technology-supported structured home exercise program in Mitochondrial Disease

Area of Science:

• Exercise science
• Rehabilitation medicine
• Digital health

Background:

• Individuals with Primary Mitochondrial Disease (PMD) often experience exercise intolerance and low physical activity levels.
• Limited access to healthcare professionals specializing in exercise prescription for PMD populations.
• Digital health technology (DHT) presents a potential solution for remote exercise support and monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and acceptability of a DHT-based intervention for increasing physical activity in individuals with mild to moderate PMD.
• To evaluate the impact of the intervention on physical performance and fatigue levels.

Main Methods:

• Ten participants with mild to moderate PMD engaged in an eight-week home exercise program delivered via an app.
• Remote monitoring was conducted using a smartwatch, with telehealth support and movement reminders.
• Feasibility, acceptability, physical performance, and fatigue were primary and secondary outcomes.

Main Results:

• Low enrollment (26%) but no dropouts; high adherence to telehealth sessions (80%) and smartwatch use (80%).
• Poor daily step target achievement; 50% met weekly intensity minutes target.
• Low adherence to strength training (30% completed ≥80% sessions).
• Pre-intervention exercisers showed better target achievement than non-exercisers.
• Positive participant feedback on DHT, but no significant changes in physical outcomes or fatigue.

Conclusions:

• DHT interventions appear feasible and acceptable for prescribing home exercise and monitoring activity in mild to moderate PMD.
• Adherence challenges highlight the need for personalized strategies, especially for those new to exercise.
• Further research is warranted to optimize DHT for this population, particularly for those with a history of exercise.