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Summary: Purpose: The purpose of the study was to investigate whether additional reminders could enhance adherence to a 12-week program consisting of regular physical activity. Methods: The study collective consisted of pensioners insured with the Austrian Insurance Fund for Civil or Public Servants. They were made aware of our program through the public service union. The subjects were randomized to an intervention group (group A) that received reminders and to a control group (group B) that did not receive such notifications. Adherence to physical activity was assessed by the use of diaries. Results: Group A performed 96 min more moderate intensity regular physical activity per week than group B (group A median 269 min, r = 0–1560 min; group B median 173 min, r = 0–2700 min). The Mann–Whitney U-test showed no significant differences (p = 0.080) between the study groups. There was no difference in muscle strengthening activity (group A: median: 2, r = 0–13 sessions; group B: median: 2, r = 0–20 sessions). Conclusion: The major positive observation was that both the experimental and control group participants exceeded the recommended level of physical activity. Nevertheless, there were some differences concerning the minutes of physical activity performed in favor of the intervention group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: The aim of this study was to present a practical concept focusing on typical aspects of regular physical activity, exercise and physical modalities for patients suffering from metastatic bone disease or multiple myeloma. Methods: A narrative review of the relevant scientific literature and presentation of clinical experiences. Results: In cancer patients with metastatic bone disease or multiple myeloma, pain is treated in an interdisciplinary and multimodal setting by using medication, radiotherapy and physical medical modalities (e.g. transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation); however, modalities increasing local blood flow, such as ultrasound therapy, thermotherapy, massage, various electrotherapy options, are not performed at the site of the tumor. For physical activity and exercise, a suitable indication of the static and dynamic capacity of the affected skeletal structures is essential. This process includes strategies to maintain and improve mobility and independence. Individually tailored and adapted physical activity and exercise concepts (programs) within a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary setting (tumor board) are used to manage the condition and bone load-bearing capacity of the patient. Typical clinical features and complications, such as pathological fractures in patients suffering from metastatic bone disease and additionally hypercalcemia, monoclonal gammopathy with bone marrow aplasia and risk of renal failure in patients with multiple myeloma have to be considered when planning supportive strategies and rehabilitation. Conclusion: In order to ensure the safety and effectiveness of regular physical activity, exercise, and physical modalities in patients with metastatic bone disease or multiple myeloma, typical contraindications and considerations should be noted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Aim of this pilot study was to describe feasibility and acceptance of an exercise intervention by using an unique swinging-ring system with the goal to promote long-term exercise behaviour in cancer patients. Methods: The included cancer patients ( n = 13, male:f emale (m:f) = 7:6, age = 56 ± 11, range 38-74a) were invited to perform a home-based exercise intervention. All participants of this pilot study were instructed how to use the smovey® Vibroswing. They could choose how to use the swinging-ring system, for example only indoor or only outdoor (single or in a group) or both. Feasibility and acceptance were assessed after 12 months (T2). Handgrip strength (Jamar hand dynamometer) and health-related quality of life (QOL, SF-36 Health survey) were assessed at baseline (T1) and after 12 months (T2). Results: A total of 10 (77 %) patients (m:f = 5:5, 59 ± 9 years, range = 46-74) could be assessed at baseline and after 12 months. The exercise intervention showed no adverse events and was well accepted. Approximately 77 % of patients of the study population have been exercising for more than 12 months. Furthermore, this intervention was able to increase handgrip strength in the participants. QOL improved as well in all domains. Conclusions: The results of this small pilot study indicate that regular physical exercise with this swinging-ring system seems to be safe, and to promote long-term exercise behaviour of the included patients. Furthermore, this study population showed benefits in terms of increased handgrip strength and of improved QOL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]