Abstract
PurposeReduced physical performance due to therapy-related dysfunctions in children diagnosed with cancer contributes to insufficient physical activity levels. It is therefore essential that relevant functions are restored. Whole-body vibration (WBV) training, a neuromuscular stimulating exercise intervention, could have the potential to target those functions adequately. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a combined supervised and home-based WBV intervention with children after inpatient oncological treatment.MethodsEight children aged 6–21 years were included after cessation of their inpatient oncological treatment. They performed a 12-week WBV training including one supervised and two home-based sessions per week according to a standardized training protocol. Feasibility, adherence and compliance to the vibration protocol were documented. Subjective benefits and satisfaction were assessed using a questionnaire. Results Study participants attended 84.03 ± 13.09% of WBV sessions. No serious adverse events occurred. Some patients reported side effects partially resulting in modifications of the vibration protocol by therapists. Almost all children regarded the intervention as beneficial.ConclusionA combined supervised and home-based WBV intervention with children after inpatient oncological treatment is feasible and safe. The beneficial potential regarding relevant sensory and motor dysfunctions is now to be investigated.Trial registration number and date of registration DRKS00014713 15.05.2018
Highlights
A major concern after pediatric cancer therapy is physical inactivity
Research has shown that childhood cancer survivors do not meet physical activity guidelines [1, 2] and have difficulties to reintegrate into physical activities in school and leisure time after medical treatment [3,4,5]
Rueegg et al found that survivors with physical performance limitations are 1.4 times more likely not to reach healthy activity levels [11]
Summary
Research has shown that childhood cancer survivors do not meet physical activity guidelines [1, 2] and have difficulties to reintegrate into physical activities in school and leisure time after medical treatment [3,4,5]. Adequate levels of physical activity are imperative in terms of secondary disease prevention and childrens physical, psychological and social well-being [6, 7]. To a variety of barriers for participation in physical activity [8,9,10], an important reason for inactivity are physical performance limitations. Rueegg et al found that survivors with physical performance limitations are 1.4 times more likely not to reach healthy activity levels [11]. In terms of physical performance, children diagnosed with cancer present impaired functional mobility, reduced
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