What we do
About our project
Background
The number of ACHD (Adults with Congenital Heart Disease) patients is still increasing. Although it is known that exercise training is beneficial and safe in these patients, we do not know if these patients are able to participate in normal sport activities or if there is a need for specific cardiac rehabilitation programs or other forms of guidance. It has been hypothesized that ACHD patients might suffer from kinesiophobia (fear of movements) which could influence their participation in physical activity and sport.
Outcomes pilot study
In a pilot study in 66 patients with Tetralogy of Fallot, we found kinesiophobia to be present in 21.2%. While mean time spent engaging in sports was low across our full study population, patients with high kinesiophobia levels seem to have even lower levels of exercise time. The findings of this pilot study warrant replication in larger cohorts and inclusion of a more diverse patient group with other congenital heart diseases.
Objective
The primary purpose of this project is to explore kinesiophobia and participation in physical activity and sport in a large group of ACHD patients. Secondary, we aim to investigate determinants of kinesiophobia and participation in sports and physical activity. Furthermore, qualitative interviews will be conducted to determine reasons for limited physical activity, to explore potential needs for interventions and to explore causes of kinesiophobia.
The number of ACHD (Adults with Congenital Heart Disease) patients is still increasing. Although it is known that exercise training is beneficial and safe in these patients, we do not know if these patients are able to participate in normal sport activities or if there is a need for specific cardiac rehabilitation programs or other forms of guidance. It has been hypothesized that ACHD patients might suffer from kinesiophobia (fear of movements) which could influence their participation in physical activity and sport.
Outcomes pilot study
In a pilot study in 66 patients with Tetralogy of Fallot, we found kinesiophobia to be present in 21.2%. While mean time spent engaging in sports was low across our full study population, patients with high kinesiophobia levels seem to have even lower levels of exercise time. The findings of this pilot study warrant replication in larger cohorts and inclusion of a more diverse patient group with other congenital heart diseases.
Objective
The primary purpose of this project is to explore kinesiophobia and participation in physical activity and sport in a large group of ACHD patients. Secondary, we aim to investigate determinants of kinesiophobia and participation in sports and physical activity. Furthermore, qualitative interviews will be conducted to determine reasons for limited physical activity, to explore potential needs for interventions and to explore causes of kinesiophobia.
Our research focus
Primary outcomes
- Kinesiophobia
- Physical activity and sport participation
Secondary outcomes
- Anxiety and Depression
- Quality of Life
Collaborations
Erasmus MC
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine
- Department of Cardiology
Outside Erasmus MC
- Capri Hartrevalidatie
- Amsterdam UMC University Medical Centre, Department of Cardiology
Our team
Dr. N. ter Hoeve
Dr. A.E. van den Bosch
Dr. M. Snaterse-Zuidam
Dr. R. Kauling
Dr. H.T. Jorstad
Dr. M. Sunamura
Dr. D. Robbers-Visser
Contact us
Nienke ter Hoeve: n.terhoeve@erasmusmc.n
