Biofeedback helps people with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation stay active
Official title: Remote Physical Activity Biofeedback Intervention for Patients With Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation Using Mobile Health Technology.
Run by Liverpool John Moores University · NCT07454317 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests a biofeedback approach using a smartwatch to monitor AF and activity and sends personalized nudges to see if it helps people with paroxysmal AF be more physically active.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Liverpool John Moores University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Liverpool, Merseyside) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | February 1, 2028 |
| Study ends | February 1, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | May 22, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07454317 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 18 years and older with paroxysmal AF who are medically stable and able to consent.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with unstable cardiovascular conditions or recent major events may not benefit from this intervention.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The trial tests a biofeedback intervention designed to encourage physical activity in people with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Participants wear a smartwatch for three weeks to monitor AF episodes and activity, then receive text message nudges with personalized summaries. The study uses a two-phase design with phase 1 focusing on co-design and usability testing to determine feasibility for a larger randomized trial. Phase 1 will collect data on usability, engagement, and preliminary activity changes to inform the next steps. The lead sponsor is Liverpool John Moores University, with collaboration from Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, conducted at the university in Liverpool, UK.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the intervention could provide a scalable way to increase daily physical activity and possibly improve AF management.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work in digital health and nudges suggests potential for behavior change, but this exact co-designed biofeedback approach for AF is exploratory and not yet proven in large trials.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Participant is willing and able to give informed consent for participation in the study. * Aged 18 or over. * Diagnosed with paroxysmal AF * Deemed medically stable and well managed. Exclusion Criteria: * Any concurrent cardiac arrhythmia * Blood pressure \>180/100 * Unstable angina * Myocardial infarction within the previous 3 months * Valvular heart disease * Heart failure NYHA class 4 * \<6 months post-transplant * Resting/uncontrolled tachycardia * Stroke in last 6 weeks * Cardiac sarcoidosis * Injury or disability preventing exercise
Where it's running
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Liverpool John Moores University
Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Luca J Howard
- Email: l.j.howard@ljmu.ac.uk
- Phone: + 151 231 2121
Similar studies
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nano-second pulsed field (nsPFA) catheter ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation using the CellFX system
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.