Mobile Health Cardiac Rehabilitation for Ischemia

This trial explores a new method to assist individuals with INOCA, a heart condition characterized by chest pain or other symptoms without blocked arteries, using mobile health technology (mHealth-CR). Participants will use a smartphone app and a wearable device to track their activity and receive weekly counseling, aiming to improve overall health and quality of life. The trial compares this new method to regular medical care. It seeks individuals diagnosed with INOCA who can move independently and are comfortable using a smartphone app. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance future care for INOCA patients.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that mobile health technology, such as the mHealth-CR program, is generally safe for individuals with heart problems. A review of remote heart rehab programs found no increase in long-term risks for participants. Thus, using apps and wearable devices to track activity and heart rate is both easy and safe.

Another study on home-based heart rehab found it safe and effective for people with heart disease, improving health without adding risk.

Researchers are excited about Mobile Health Cardiac Rehabilitation (mHealth-CR) because it revolutionizes cardiac rehab for ischemia by integrating technology into patient care. Unlike traditional cardiac rehabilitation, which typically involves in-person sessions, mHealth-CR leverages a smartphone app and wearable devices like a Fitbit or Apple Watch to track activity and heart rate, making it convenient and accessible. This method allows for daily therapist-directed activities and weekly phone support, providing personalized care from the comfort of home. By combining technology with rehabilitation, mHealth-CR aims to improve patient engagement and outcomes in managing ischemic heart conditions.

Research has shown that mobile health tools for cardiac rehabilitation (mHealth-CR), which participants in this trial may receive, can help people with heart conditions improve their health. Some studies suggest that mobile apps for cardiac rehab can simplify tracking physical activity and keep patients engaged. These apps often include features like goal setting and automatic exercise tracking, which have been linked to better health outcomes. However, other studies found that mHealth-CR might not significantly enhance exercise ability or improve some health measures compared to regular care. While results are mixed, mHealth-CR has the potential to increase patient involvement and make rehab services more accessible.²⁴⁶⁷⁸