The use of motion tracking technology to support an exercise intervention for children and young people with cancer: perspectives of users and healthcare professionals in the FORTEe trial.

内容摘要

Technological advances provide new approaches to improving oncology care. Research indicates that supportive technological tools can benefit children with cancer, and integrating technology into exercise-based interventions may enhance physical activity and reduce fatigue. The FORTEe clinical trial incorporated a motion tracking device (Pixformance) within a broader, individualised exercise intervention for children and young adults (CAYA) with cancer. The device used an inbuilt camera, avatar-led demonstrations, and real-time feedback on exercise form. This FORTEe sub-study explored the perspectives of CAYA with cancer and exercise and healthcare professionals (EHCP) on using this motion tracking technology. CAYA aged 4-21 years and EHCP from five participating centres were eligible. Experiences and perceptions were explored through semi-structured interviews with CAYA and an anonymous online survey for EHCP. The CAYA interviews and open-ended text from the EHCP survey were analysed using an inductive content analysis approach. Ninety CAYA (mean age 11.1 ± 3.7 years; 44.4% female) participated in interviews and 33 EHCP completed the survey. CAYA found the device a novel and useful addition to conventional training, appreciating its variety of exercises and real-time guidance. Some technical issues affected motion detection consistency. EHCP recognised benefits for supervised exercise but highlighted challenges with transport and offline use. CAYA also suggested adding gamification features such as rewards, avatar customisation, and competition. The motion tracking device was well received by both CAYA and EHCP. Findings suggest this technology could complement conventional exercise interventions and provide insights for optimising efficiency, motivation, and user experience in clinical settings. ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05289739).