To address this, a group of researchers followed 66 people for five years after major non-neurological trauma, to ask them about physical activity.
Despite wanting to be physically active, many of the people in the study experienced significant, long-term physical activity restriction after their injury, which persisted over time.
Restrictions were often related to a fear of re-injury or of exacerbating pain and fatigue levels. These restrictions were a source of distress and frustration for many of them – given the perceived impacts on their social life, family roles and enjoyment of life. They were also concerned about weight gain, health decline and reduced physical fitness.
They valued the support of insurers and specialised services in facilitating access to modified activities, such as clinical Pilates and hydrotherapy. Many of them also recognised the importance of adaptation, goal-setting, self-motivation and determination to be physically active despite limitations.
Physiotherapists can use this information to help people be physically active after trauma.
> From: Ekegren et al., J Physiother 66 (2020) 188-195 . All rights reserved to Australian Physiotherapy Association. Click here for the online summary.
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