Transferability of a 10-week remotely delivered Virtual Physical Activity Seated Exercise (V-PASE) program on post-stroke functional mobility: study protocol for a multisite randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background Seated exercises may reduce the need for in-person support during home-based exercise programs in people with balance impairments. However, it is uncertain if these exercises can transfer to improved lower extremity function and mobility. Thus, the objective is to investigate the effects of a remotely delivered 10-week seated exercise intervention on functional mobility, compared with control, in individuals living with a chronic stroke who have balance impairments. Methods The study is a multi-site, assessor blinded, randomized controlled trial that will recruit across five provinces in Canada using the CanStroke Recovery Trials platform. A total of 100 adults living with a chronic stroke (≥ 6 months post-stroke) and mobility impairment (using a walking aid) will be recruited. Participants will be randomized (1:1) to the 10-week Virtual Physical Activity Seated Exercise (V-PASE) or control group. All exercise sessions will be delivered one-on-one through videoconferencing by a trained instructor. Sessions will be 60 min in duration and completed 3 times/week at a moderate intensity (40%–60% Heart Rate Reserve). The primary outcome measure is the 30s Sit-To-Stand score at the end of the 10-week intervention. Secondary outcome measures will be mobility, balance, quality of life, stroke-related quality of life, cognition, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and blood profiles (glucose and lipids). Discussion Exercises completed in a chair have the potential to transfer to improved functional mobility in people with balance impairments, such as individuals with stroke. The stability of the seated position may improve safety during home-based exercises and thus increase participation. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05724823. Registered on February 13th, 2023.