Johansen H, Velvin G, Lidal I. Adults with Loeys-Dietz syndrome and vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: a cross-sectional study of patient experiences with physical activity.
Disabil Rehabil 2020;
44:1968-1975. [PMID:
32915071 DOI:
10.1080/09638288.2020.1815874]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE
To study patient experiences with physical activity among persons with Loeys-Dietz- or vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A postal questionnaire survey in 2018. Seventy adults with molecularly verified Loeys-Dietz syndrome types 1-4, or vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome recruited through a National Resource Centre for Rare Disorders in Norway.
RESULTS
The response rate was 74%, (Loeys-Dietz n = 34, vascular Ehlers-Danlos n = 18), aged 18 to 68 years, 58% women. In total, 88.5% reported they had received advice regarding physical activity and most (77%) had modified their habits. Fifty percent had an appropriate- and 40% a low mean physical activity sum score. Another 10% had too high physical activity levels due to high intensity scores. Lower scores with the Fatigue Severity Scale (p = 0.033) and the anxiety subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (p = 0.021), were associated with high physical activity levels. About a third reported unmet rehabilitation needs.
CONCLUSION
Many adults with Loeys-Dietz- or vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may have a potential to reach more favorable physical activity levels by increasing the frequency and duration of activities. Future directions should include evaluation of effects of professional-led practical and safe physical activity sessions as well as customized multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs for these patient groups.
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