DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF AN EXERCISE PERFORMANCE SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR PEOPLE WITH LOWER-EXTREMITY IMPAIRMENT

Objective. To identify innovative strategies to support appropriate, s elf-directed exercise that increase physical activity levels of people with arthritis. This article reports on one interactive, multimedia e xercise performance support system (PSS) for people with lower extremi ty impairments in strength or flexibility. Methods. An interdisciplina ry team developed the PSS using self-report of lower extremity musculo skeletal impairments (flexibility and strength) to produce an individu alized exercise program with video and print educational materials. In itial evaluation has investigated the validity and reliability of prog ram assessments and recommendations. Results. PSS self-report and prof essional assessments were similar, with more impairments indicated by self-report. PSS exercise recommendations were similar to those made b y 3 expert physical therapists using the same exercise data base. Resu lts of PSS impairment assessments were stable over a 1-week period. Co nclusion. PSS exercise recommendations appear to be reliable and a val id reflection of current exercise knowledge in rheumatology. Furthermo re, users were able to complete the computer-based program with minima l assistance and reported it to be enjoyable and informative.