Effects of an exercise program during pediatric stem cell transplantation: A randomized controlled trial.

Background: During pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), there is significant reduction in physical activity, leading to loss of strength and function, along with decline in quality of life (QoL). This study evaluates the effects of a supervised exercise program on functional ability, mobility, strength, and QoL during and following pediatric HSCT.

Methods: Patients ages 4-21 years presenting for HSCT were randomized to either an intervention group, who underwent exercise routines three times weekly and once weekly on discharge for 6 weeks supervised by a physical therapist, or the control group, which was treated per standard of care.

Ranges and drivers of risk associated with sports and recreational activities in people with haemophilia: results of the Activity-Intensity-Risk Consensus Survey of US physical therapists.

Introduction: Limited evidence describes physical activity-associated bleeding risks for people with haemophilia, and risks are usually described only generically.

Aim: To assess activity-specific ranges of risk for joint, soft tissue and head bleeds by identifying inherent and modifiable risk factors associated with each activity, based on opinions of expert physical therapists (PTs).

Methods: Physical therapists from US haemophilia treatment centres (HTCs) participated in a survey of 101 physical activities.