Dissertation
The effects of over-ground adaptive cycling on physical activity participation in children with physical disabilities: a pilot study
Doctor of Health Science (D.H.Sc.), Drexel University
Jun 2023
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00001741
Abstract
Aims: This study examined the potential impact home access to adaptive 3-wheeled cycles has on physical activity (PA) in children with physical disabilities and sought to better understand the cycling experience from the perspective of children and their families. Exploratory measures investigated the influence of adaptive cycling on participation, functional mobility, and muscle strength. Methods: A pilot study, including 5 children between the ages of 5 and 15 and their families, was completed with pre-post measures of PA utilizing activity logs and The Children's Leisure Activity Study Survey (CLASS). Cycle use data was captured utilizing GPS based cycle computers and periodic completion of activity logs. Parent survey and child interviews, in addition to activity logs, provided insight to the child and family cycling experiences. Secondary measures completed pre- and post- included the Child and Adolescent Scale of Participation (CASP), the Timed Up and Go (TUG), and handheld dynamometry (HHD). Individual case data was examined and compiled. Group calculations were completed on Likert scale questions from parent questionnaire to inform acceptability and feasibility of study design. Results: Child PA was variable throughout the study period for each child without consistent change in PA across participants. Children reported enjoyment of cycling, were able to delineate between the 'fun' and 'work' components of cycling and appropriately related fatigue or muscle soreness to their cycling experience. Parents appear to value the cycling experience for their children. No measurable change in participation, functional mobility, or muscle strength was noted. Study design was generally feasible and acceptable with insights from parents informing future study design. Conclusion: Adaptive 3-wheeled cycling is an enjoyable and meaningful experience for children and valued by parents. Although no consistent improvement in PA was observed, clinicians should consider adaptive cycling as a potential avenue to support PA in children with disabilities.
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Details
- Title
- The effects of over-ground adaptive cycling on physical activity participation in children with physical disabilities
- Creators
- Christina Zabrodski Thompson
- Contributors
- Lisa A. Chiarello (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Health Science (D.H.Sc.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- ix, 113 pages
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- College of Nursing and Health Professions; Drexel University; Physical Therapy (and Rehabilitation Sciences)
- Other Identifier
- 991021212215204721