Article

This study qualitatively examined the attitudes and perceived barriers
to exercise of women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
We also explored the level
of exercise that might be considered helpful or harmful, and whether walking
would be an acceptable type of exercise. METHOD: Eight women with RA were
interviewed via telephone using a semi-structured approach. Transcripts were
coded for themes using the General Inductive Approach. These themes were used to
develop a theoretical model of the effect of barriers and facilitators to
exercise for women with RA. RESULTS: Two themes emerged (social connections and
fear). Social connections could facilitate participation in exercise or prove to
be a barrier. Fear had three distinct sub-themes: fear of the unknown (including
a safe level of exercise), fear of the known and fear for safety. For most
participants, walking 3-4 times a week was thought to be an acceptable programme
for themselves or others with RA. CONCLUSION: Among those interviewed, walking
was considered an acceptable form of exercise for people with RA. Many of the
barriers to exercise identified by participants could be alleviated by detailed
instructions on the type and duration of exercise recommended. These findings
inform the development of walking interventions. Implications for Rehabilitation
People with RA and various other chronic illnesses have previously been found to
request more specific guidance for incorporating physical activity into their
treatment. There was a willingness to participate in physical activity among our
participants with RA. Activities such as walking appear to be feasible for people
with RA but fears and social support can be barriers. Rehabilitation
professionals are ideally placed to help people with RA overcome fears and social
support barriers: providing encouragement to participate with others is
recommended.

Langue : ANGLAIS