BHPR research: qualitativeE01. Patient-Reported Long-Term Effects of Aprogressive Resistance Training Programme

Abstract

Background: We introduced a 6 week physiotherapy-led progressive resistance training (PRT) programme for new and established inflammatory arthritis patients in late 2013. The aim was to improve physical function and prevent the muscle loss which is associated with rheumatoid cachexia. 6 week data showed improvement in body composition, physical function and fatigue scores. We wished to study the longer term effects of the programme on patient exercise habits and their perspective. Methods: We sent a postal questionnaire to patients who completed the six weeks PRT programme from 2013 to early 2016. They were asked the following questions: 1. Describe the best you feel at present following the exercise programme a) Same b) Better c) Worse 2. Do you feel the programme was worthwhile? Yes or No. 3. Have you continued with progressive resistance exercises? Yes or No. 4. Did you feel the programme was too long, just right or too short? 5. Other comments Results: 28 out of 79 patients returned the questionnaire. 64% (18/28) still felt better following the programme; 32% (9/28) felt the same; 4% (1/28) worse. 89% (25/28) felt the programme was worthwhile. 75% (21/28) continued with the progressive resistance exercises. The duration of the programme was just right for 64% (18/28) and too short for 36% (10/28). 25 of 28 (89%) patients added extra comments out of which 24/25 (87%) were positive. A selection of representative patient comments: “Motivated me to join gym and improved my well-being”. “Gave me a kick start”. “Slightly longer programme may encourage patients to continue with the exercises”. “Felt too intense. Felt tired and barely able to walk”. “Enjoyed doing the classes”. “I do Tai chi”. “Continued exercise for a year but the survey is a good reminder to start again”. “I attend regular hydro classes”. Conclusion: Almost 90% patients who responded have found the six week PRT programme worthwhile. 75% of them have continued with the progressive resistance exercises. One third of patients (36%) felt that the programme was too short and we have therefore increased the programme to ten sessions over fifteen weeks.