Which interventions are effective for promoting physical activity in people with neuromuscular disease? A Cochrane Review summary with commentary

BACKGROUND: Neuromuscular diseases (NMDs) are conditions characterized by progressive muscle weakness resulting in limitations in the activities of daily living. Physical inactivity in this population represents a major health issue increasing the risk of further chronic health problems and complications. OBJECTIVE: To discuss evidence on the effects of intervention for promoting physical activity in people with NMDs from a rehabilitative perspective. METHODS: To summarize and comment on the published Cochrane Review “Interventions for promoting physical activity in people with neuromuscular disease” by Jones et al. RESULTS: This Cochrane Review included 13 trials (795 participants from 12 studies, number of participants unclear in one study) evaluating practical, informational, or motivational interventions, designed to promote physical activity, in comparison to no intervention, or another intervention. CONCLUSION: A low- to very-low certainty of the evidence was found on the effectiveness of physical activity-promoting interventions in people with NMD. Further studies are required to address this topic.