The primary objective of this study was to quantify and describe physical activity and mobility patterns in patients with moderate to severe acquired brain injuries. Secondary objectives were to investigate factors associated with higher physical activity levels during early and late phases of admission and to explore whether early-phase physical activity correlates with better functional outcomes at discharge.
This single-center observational study was conducted between November 2022 and February 2024. Physical activity and mobilization were quantified for two seven-day periods: immediately after admission and 7-10 days before discharge. Two SENS® Motion accelerometers were used to distinguish between lying, sitting, and upright positions, with data collected between 7 am and 10 pm. Activity levels were categorized as physically active, sedentary, or inactive. Linear and multiple regressions were used to analyze associations with activity levels and outcomes.
Ninety-nine patients (58 males) with a mean age of 50.9 years (95% CI 47.8; 54.1) were included. Of these, 24.2% had traumatic brain injury, and 21.2% had an intracerebral hemorrhage. Active time was 4.9% (95% CI 2.76; 6.02) in the early measurement period (n=89), increasing to 10.97% (95% CI 8.25; 13.68) before discharge (n=74). Male gender was negatively correlated with physical activity in the early phase (-3.67, 95% CI -7.06; -0.28), though this association was not observed in the later phase. Disorders of consciousness were similarly associated with reduced physical activity, but no other predictors were identified
Physical activity increased from admission to discharge during subacute rehabilitation in patients with moderate to severe acquired brain injuries. Contrary to expectations, factors such as medical device use and infections did not significantly influence activity levels. These findings prompt further inquiry into defining and promoting physical activity in this patient population.
Our findings highlight the need for healthcare providers to reconsider how physical activity is approached during subacute neurorehabilitation.
Activity monitoring
