Journal article
Patient experiences and the psychosocial benefits of group aquatic exercise to reduce symptoms of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: a pilot study
Fatigue: Biomedicine, Health & Behavior, Vol.8(2), pp.84-96
11/04/2020
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Source: InCites
Abstract
Background: The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of participants in a short aquatic exercise programme for individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and to gain insight into the perceived psychosocial benefits. Methods: The exercise programme was of five-weeks duration, with two self-paced aquatic sessions per week. Eleven female participants (mean age 54.8 ± 12.4 yr) reported the onset and changes (24-48 h) in post-exercise fatigue, pain and other symptoms after each session, and completed a post-intervention interview comprising nine open-ended questions, with additional discussions. The reported symptoms and interview responses were entered into a spreadsheet, grouped and coded to identify the themes and subthemes. Results: The main themes were 'symptoms', 'benefits', 'engagement and compliance', and 'limitations'. The analysis found that group aquatic exercises reduced social isolation through shared experiences and enhanced support; were beneficial and enjoyable without exacerbating symptoms; were preferable to other modes of exercise; and were seen as a long-term exercise option. Participants reported a reduction in pain, fatigue and anxiety after the intervention. Conclusions: Psychosocial benefits suggest that self-paced group aquatic exercise is a safe, enjoyable and effective mode of exercise rehabilitation for people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Details
- Title
- Patient experiences and the psychosocial benefits of group aquatic exercise to reduce symptoms of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: a pilot study
- Creators
- Suzanne Broadbent (Author) - University of the Sunshine CoastSonja Coetzee (Author) - University of the Sunshine CoastRosalind Beavers (Author) - Southern Cross UniversityLouise Horstmanshof (Author) - Southern Cross University
- Publication Details
- Fatigue: Biomedicine, Health & Behavior, Vol.8(2), pp.84-96
- Publisher
- Taylor & Francis
- Identifiers
- 991012854000102368
- Academic Unit
- School of Health and Human Sciences; Human Sciences; Faculty of Health
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article