A qualitative exploration of physiotherapists' perceptions about exercise and physical activity: reflections on the results from a Delphi Study.

CONCLUSION: Physiotherapists described exercise and physical activity as movement with a focus on the physiological attributes. Nonetheless they valued and use exercise and physical activity as strategies to manage the symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis. Physiotherapists are strategically placed in the community to initiate discussions, assess, and create opportunities to enhance the physical activity practices of people with multiple sclerosis. However, there is greater scope for the application of physical activity to be embedded in routine clinical practice in the management of multiple sclerosis in the community. Implications for rehabilitation Physiotherapists should design flexible physical activity programmes which are meaningful, engaging and foster the necessary environment to sustain physical activity participation in people with multiple sclerosis. Health professionals should be aware of and understand the individuals' priorities as these are key drivers to engaging and sustaining physical activity in community dwelling people with multiple sclerosis. Physiotherapists should be aware of their own beliefs and theoretical principles that guide designs and treatment programmes as these might either enhance or restrict physical activity in people with multiple sclerosis. PMID: 31012331 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Disability and Rehabilitation - Category: Rehabilitation Authors: Tags: Disabil Rehabil Source Type: research