Physical activity can be a useful tool in managing and even preventing many health conditions. Does physical activity have an impact in epilepsy? What aspects of an individual’s life may be improved with physical activity?
Dr. Gabriel Ronen and his colleagues are conducting a randomized, controlled study to look at the benefits of increasing physical activity for overall health and quality of life in children with epilepsy. Their research team, including members from McMaster University and the University of Ottawa, have organized and are now recruiting participants for a 12-month pedometer-measured walking program. This program will also offer motivational strategies to ensure that physical activity levels remain high. Over 100 children with epilepsy and their families have already been recruited.
This study hopes to increase the levels of physical activity in children with epilepsy that are part of the experimental group, not only over the first six-month period but also beyond the study period. The belief is that increased activity will positively influence brain health and reduce co-morbidities in children with epilepsy, which is the goal of this research. Overall, this study hopes to prove that care goes beyond medication.