PURPOSE: To investigate the impact of a 5-week supported physical
activity (PA) intervention on parental report of health-related quality of
life (HRQL) in children with medical complexity (CMC).
METHODS: Twenty-nine CMC participated in 180 minutes of supported PA
daily. A pre- and post-test design was used to assess HRQL total and domain
scores as reported by parents. The relationship between supported PA
duration and HRQL was also examined.
RESULTS: Children with medical complexity experienced no adverse
effects with the supported PA intervention. Significant improvements in HRQL
scores (P < 0.05) were demonstrated. A 5- to 8-point HRQL improvement occurred
when CMC engaged in an average of 40 minutes of PA daily.
CONCLUSION: Short-term, supported PA enhanced parental report of
HRQL in children with medical complexity. Supported PA appears safe for CMC
and rehabilitation therapists should explore methods to expand opportunities
for participation.
