Evaluation of physical fitness and physical activity levels of pediatric arrhythmia patients with pacemaker

There are no studies evaluating physical fitness and physical activity levels in children with a pacemaker. The aim of this study was to evaluate physical fitness and physical activity levels of pediatric arrhythmia patients with pacemaker compared with their healthy peers. 27 pediatric arrhythmia patients aged between 7-18 years and 21 healthy subjects were included. Physical fitness was assessed using Munich Physical Fitness Test (MFT). The SenseWear Armband metabolic holter device was used to record the physical activity level for consecutive 7 days. The functional exercise capacity of the individuals was assessed by the six-minute walking test (6MWT) and cardiorespiratory capacity was assessed by maximal exercise test on the treadmill. The total scores and sub-parameters' scores of the MFT were significantly lower in the patient group (p<0.05). Patients' total energy expenditure, active energy expenditure, physical activity level, total distance, and the number of steps were significantly lower than in healthy subjects (p<0.05). Sedentary activity and light, moderate to vigorous, and vigorous physical activity durations were similar in both groups (p> 0.05). Patients' 6MWT distance, the percentage of 6MWT distance, peak workload and peak heart rate achieved in the exercise test were significantly lower than those of healthy subjects (p<0.05). In conclusion, physical fitness and physical activity level, functional and maximal exercise capacities of pediatric arrhythmia patients with a pacemaker are lower than those of healthy individuals. Physical activity and exercise programs appropriate for pediatric arrhythmia patients with a pacemaker can improve physical fitness, physical activity levels and exercise capacities of patients. Further study is needed to investigate effects of physical activity and exercise programs in these patients.