A randomized feasibility pilot trial of a remotely delivered physical activity intervention for adults with epilepsy

The objective of this study was to assess feasibility of a remotely delivered physical activity intervention in adults with epilepsy.

Adults with epilepsy and at least one seizure in the prior six months were randomized 2:1 to either a physical activity intervention or a healthy living education control arm. The intervention group received a 12-week program led by a trained health coach aimed to progressively increase daily steps while the control group received biweekly telephone education on healthy living. Sustainability was assessed at 12 weeks post-intervention. Daily steps and activity intensity were continuously measured by a Garmin Forerunner 45.

A total of 21 participants were randomized (15 intervention; 6 control), and 17 completed the full study (14; 3). There was high retention (93%), attendance (80%), and acceptability in the intervention group. While the proportion of the intervention group who strictly adhered to their daily step goal was low (26.67%; 95% CI 0.076 - 0.581), there was a significant increase in mean daily steps (3495 (95% CI 2,170-4,821) to 5591(4,271-6,911), p < 0.001) and mean daily moderate-to-vigorous intensity activity minutes (17.98 (5.55-30.41) to 30.11 (17.93-42.28), p < 0.001) in the intervention group compared to the control group. Both measures remained elevated at follow-up (4,758 (3,437-6,079) and 35.26 (23.03-47.49), respectively) while the control group showed no statistically significant changes over time.

A remotely delivered daily steps-based physical activity intervention is feasible for people with epilepsy and shows promising immediate and sustainable effects on physical activity behaviors.