Physical Medicine

Smartphone music-facilitated PR improved walking distance and symptoms in COPD.

In a 3-arm multicenter RCT (n=70), a 12-week smartphone multicomponent music program increased ISWT distance versus usual care (MD 56.35 m). The multimodule training arm also improved mMRC dyspnea, COPD Assessment Test, anxiety scores, and inspiratory capacity versus usual care. Rhythm-guided walking alone did not differ from usual care for primary or secondary outcomes. Applicability is to COPD patients able to use a home smartphone app; results depend on engagement with the multicomponent program. 1

Eight weeks of supervised pickleball reversed pre-frailty and improved fitness.

In 72 community-dwelling pre-frail older adults, 8 weeks of supervised pickleball reversed pre-frailty in 42% versus 8% in controls. The intervention improved functional fitness measures including chair stand, arm curl, back-scratch, and 6-minute walk (≈ +31 m). Participants reduced sedentary time and increased light activity, with better physical and mental quality-of-life scores. This applies to community older adults able to participate in group sport and with supervision for safety. 2

E-based group resistance training for people with MS: feasibility supports a full RCT.

A feasibility study (n=50) of home, online-supervised resistance band training in pwMS showed 63% adherence and mean attendance of 15.2 sessions. No intervention-related adverse events were reported during the feasibility period. The full RCT will assess 6-minute walk change, NEDA-3, quality of life, fatigue, and neurofilament light levels. Clinicians should consider e-based resistance training where access or travel limit center-based rehab, but await RCT efficacy data. 3