Using smartphone technology and e-coaching to improve exercise adherence for spinal cord injury patients

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This research aims to enhance physical activity among individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) through a tailored smartphone app and e-coaching. The study is divided into three phases: first, focus groups will gather insights from potential app users and clinicians to optimize app design; second, a usability study will assess the app's effectiveness; and third, a randomized trial will evaluate the most effective methods to improve exercise adherence. The goal is to create a low-cost, adaptive telehealth program that supports exercise adherence and improves health outcomes for individuals with SCI.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria: Phase 1

* Individual with diagnosis of SCI, formal or informal caregiver of an individual with an SCI, or clinician that regularly sees individuals with SCI
* 18-80 years of age
* English-speaking
* Willing to download the study apps

Exclusion Criteria: Phase 1

* Severe visual or cognitive problems that would affect the ability to complete the study
* Does not own, or is unable to use a smartphone

Inclusion Criteria: Phase 2 and 3

* Individual with diagnosis of SCI, complete (only paraplegia) or incomplete, cervical C3- C4 and below
* 18-80 years of age
* English-speaking
* Use a wheelchair as primary means of mobility or walk with or without assistive equipment
* At least 1-year post-SCI
* Not adhering to SCI-specific exercise guidelines as ascertained by self-report or during structured phone interview
* Interested in increasing exercise levels
* Ownership of a smartphone that can be used for the study and has a data plan
* Willing to successfully download and learn to use the study apps
* Able and willing to give written consent and comply with study procedures, including multiple in person follow-up visits

Exclusion Criteria: Phase 2 and 3

* Trauma or surgery in the past three months
* An active stage 3 or 4 pressure ulcer
* Medically unstable to perform the home-based exercise as determined by Dr. Chen and his team, the evaluating physical therapist, or the participants' primary care physician.
* Unable to use at least one set of extremities to exercise
* Enrolled in a structured exercise program over the past three months
* Severe visual or cognitive problems that would affect the ability to complete the study
* Does not own, or is unable to use a smartphone

Where it's running

• Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
  Chicago, Illinois, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Sara Nataletti, PhD
• Email: snataletti@sralab.org
• Phone: (312)-238-7113

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.