Evaluation of the Effect of a Physical Activity Recovery Stay on the Physical Condition and Quality of Life of Children in a Situation of Physical Deconditioning

A WHO study in 2020 revealed that 81% of adolescents (aged 11-17) do not respect the recommendation of one hour of moderate physical activity per day. In the context of disability, many factors impose limits on physical activity. While the pathology itself induces limitations and restrictions (prolonged sitting time, assisted movement, etc.), organizational constraints also apply to both children and parents, who have to divide their time between work, school and therapeutic care, which is sometimes numerous and varied over the course of a single week. These limitations generate stress and fatigue, and prolonged sedentary periods lead children with chronic illnesses, rare diseases or disabilities into a process of physical deconditioning. The accumulation of sedentary time is detrimental to cardiovascular and metabolic health.

To combat this deconditioning, the 2008 National Physical Activity and Sport Plan (PNAPS) sets out the main guidelines for treatment and implementation. The plan explains that "for patients with chronic illnesses, rare diseases or disabilities, the aim is to encourage care and guidance towards Adapted Physical Activity (APA). The attending physician will be able to identify local therapeutic education programs, rehabilitation services and "sport-santé" offers, to improve access for these patients to supervised local programs". In addition, the plan suggests "developing APA programs in healthcare establishments to enable people with chronic illnesses, rare diseases or disabilities to access health education incorporating practical sessions".

In line with this plan, an exercise reconditioning program has been set up at our facility. This three-month stay includes children with a variety of pathologies, but with a common feature of physical deconditioning.