Motion sensors for monitoring physical activity in cystic fibrosis: what is the next step?

Abstract Background: There is some evidence to suggest patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) may be less physically active than their healthy peers, and there is increased interest in how to measure physical activity patterns accurately in CF. Objectives: The purpose of this review is to explore the use of motion sensors and review their clinimetric properties and feasibility in CF, and make some suggestions for their future use. Major findings: A search of the literature identified six key articles that investigated the clinimetric properties (reliability, validity, and responsiveness) of motion sensors in CF. There is little data available with regard to the clinimetric properties of motion sensors in CF. Further research is required to collect data on normal values, variability and a clinically meaningful change in people with CF. Information on feasibility shows that patients find the devices acceptable to wear and that data capture is acceptable. Conclusions: Improving physical activity is important in CF; however, there is currently insufficient evidence to recommend the use of motion sensors as clinical assessment tools or as endpoints in clinical trials of interventions to improve physical activity. Motion sensors should only be used as a research tool where their effectiveness can be evaluated.