Promoting Physical Activity Engagement for People With Early-stage Cerebellar Ataxia (EngageAtaxia)
Cerebellar Ataxia
About this trial
This is an interventional treatment trial for Cerebellar Ataxia focused on measuring physical activity, physical therapy, balance training, physical activity coaching, neurodegenerative disease, rehabilitation
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
- Neurologist confirmed diagnosis of cerebellar ataxia
- Scale for Ataxia Rating and Assessment (SARA) score between 8-25 (total score of 40), which will capture mild to moderate stage of the disease
- Ambulatory for indoor and outdoor mobility without assistance or assistive device
- Successful completion of Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) or medical clearance from primary doctor
- Medical clearance to exercise
Exclusion Criteria:
- Musculoskeletal injury that would prevent participation in an exercise program
- Other neurological disease or disorder such as stroke
- Cardiac/pulmonary conditions that would affect participants ability to participate exercise program
- Metabolic conditions that would affect participants during an exercise program
- Currently do moderate-vigorous exercise 5 days a week or more
Sites / Locations
- Teachers College, Columbia University
Arms of the Study
Arm 1
Experimental
Physical Activity Coaching
Participants will receive up to 5 individualized coaching sessions delivered via telehealth to facilitate and optimize exercise uptake. The therapist will facilitate discussion on specific and measurable goals, and will provide options for tracking their progress, such as written or web-based exercise logs or an activity monitor. The recommended exercises will be individualized to each participant but will primarily focus on increasing general physical activity (e.g. steps per day) as well as engagement in moderate intensity aerobic exercise a minimum of three times per week. Balance and strengthening exercises will also be recommended as appropriate.