Article

To evaluate the impact of pedometer use on the physical activity (PA) and
functional walking capacity (FWC) of adolescents with juvenile idiopathic
arthritis (JIA) and lower extremity (LE) involvement. Twenty-seven adolescents,
aged 11-19 years with JIA and LE involvement, participated in the three-phase
pedometer study that introduced the use of a pedometer and an education seminar
at 6 weeks. Measurements were taken at the baseline first visit and at weeks 6,
12, and 20. The primary outcome measure was the 6-minute walk test (6MWT).
Thirteen completed the study. Six-minute walk distance (6MWD) significantly
increased from baseline (458.0 +/- 70.8 m) to the end of phase 1 (501.4 +/- 59.8
m) (p = 0.035), prior to receiving the pedometer; and from baseline to the end of
study (p = 0.0037). No significant changes in 6MWD were found between weeks 6 and
12 (intervention) (p = 0.77) or between weeks 12 and 20 (follow through phase) (p
= 0.27). In adolescents with LE JIA, consistent guidance and support by
rheumatology professionals appears to positively influence PA and measures of FWC
as seen through improved 6MWD. There was insufficient evidence to show that
pedometers further increased FWC or PA.

Langue : ANGLAIS