Intervention to Improve Running and Physical Activity Participation in Children With Generalised Joint Hypermobility: A Feasibility Study.

BACKGROUND: Children with symptomatic paediatric generalised joint hypermobility (pgGJH) have limitations in physical activity and participation, yet there is a lack of research to guide intervention. In Australia, these children do not receive funding support. The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of a programme delivered in a private practice to improve running and associated goals of children with pgGJH from the perspectives of children, parents and staff. METHODS: Children with pgGJH undertook a weekly group running intervention and home exercise programme (HEP) for 10 weeks. Feasibility of delivery in a private paediatric therapy clinic was determined using physical and self-reported measures for acceptability, demand, implementation, practicality, integration and intervention efficacy. Semi-structured interviews with participants, therapists and managers explored multiple aspects of feasibility of the programme. RESULTS: Acceptability: satisfaction was rated between 6.5 and 9/10. Demand: 155 of 175 survey respondents were interested in the programme. Recruitment saw 24 participants invited, 10 excluded and 6 declined. Eight children aged 10-15 years (two female) participated and attended ≥ 90% of sessions. The HEP was completed at least twice per week by 62% of participants. IMPLEMENTATION: the intervention was completed according to the protocol with one minor adverse event. Practicality: the intervention was well equipped but expensive to run with a therapist to participant ratio of 1:3. Integration: interventionists perceived the programme to fit well within the practice infrastructure and culture. EFFICACY: participants and parents reported improved running technique and increased confidence in physical activity. Leg stiffness improved and kinesiophobia was reduced. CONCLUSION: A running intervention for children with pgGJH was acceptable, in demand, practical to deliver and able to be integrated and implemented in a private clinic. Cost was the main challenge identified by families and management.