The Effect of a Technology-Mediated Integrated Walking and Tai Chi Intervention on Physical Function in Veterans With COPD and Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain

Launched by VA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT · Jan 18, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new way to help veterans who have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and ongoing muscle or joint pain. The researchers want to see if a combination of walking and Tai Chi, supported by technology like smartphones, can improve how these veterans feel and function in their daily lives. Being active is important for people with COPD, but pain often makes it hard for them to exercise. This study aims to find out if this gentle exercise program can make a difference.

To participate in the trial, veterans need to be at least 40 years old and have a diagnosed case of COPD, along with chronic pain that has lasted for more than three months. They should be able to walk at least one block and have access to a computer or smartphone for virtual sessions. Participants will be asked to take part in the program and attend follow-up visits to track their progress. This study is a great opportunity to explore new ways to enhance physical health and overall quality of life for veterans dealing with these conditions.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Male and female participants, aged 40 and older
• • Clinical diagnosis of COPD defined as history of cigarette consumption of \> 10 pack-years, and either a ratio of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) to forced vital capacity (FVC) \< 0.70 or chest computerized tomography (CT) evidence of emphysema\*
• • Numeric Rating Scale pain score \> 3 for \> 3 months
• • Self-reported ability to walk a minimum of one block, bend at the hip, and transfer weight from one leg to another
• • Ability to complete 800 feet walk with Fitbit Inspire-2 recording \> 90% accuracy to detect steps compared to manual counts\*
• • Have access to a computer or smartphone with Internet connection or willing to come to study site to use study computers
• • Have access to videoconferencing audio and video capabilities
• • Competent to provide informed consent and willingness to make return study visits
• • Different criteria are used if baseline study visit is a virtual one.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • COPD exacerbation in the previous 1 month
• • Clinical signs of unstable cardiovascular disease (active coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, uncontrolled atrial fibrillation, or uncontrolled hypertension)
• • Oxygen saturation \< 85% recorded on baseline 4-meter walk\*
• • High fall risk (unable to perform 5 chair stand tests)
• • Inability to ambulate
• • Inability to complete questionnaires
• • Inability to collect at least 7 of 10 days of baseline step counts
• • Active substance abuse
• • Participation in a regular exercise (i.e., MOVE! or Gerofit) or Tai Chi program in the previous 3 months
• • Concurrent participation in another interventional research study
• • Receipt of hospice or end-of-life palliative care
• • Active medical intervention that would cause a meaningful increase in pain such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy
• • Different criteria are used if baseline study visit is a virtual one.