Perceived barriers to and facilitators of behavioural change towards a more active lifestyle in people with neuromuscular diseases: a qualitative study.

Objective: To explore perceived barriers to and facilitators of behaviour change towards a more active lifestyle in people with neuromuscular diseases.

Design: A qualitative study.

Subjects: Nineteen subjects (63% females, age range 28-73 years), representing 4 different neuromuscular diseases.

Methods: Data from a randomized controlled trial were used. Subjects followed a physical activity programme including coaching sessions using motivational interviewing techniques. All sessions were audio-recorded, and thematic analyses were conducted on a random selection of 29 audio recordings, using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health as a framework.

Results: Barriers and facilitators were identified in the following domains: body functions and structures (i.e., neuromusculoskeletal, sensory and mental functions), activities and participation (i.e., undertaking multiple tasks and complex interpersonal interactions), environmental factors (i.e., products and technology for personal use in daily living, design/construction of buildings for public and private use, financial assets, climate, natural events, support and relationships) and personal factors (i.e., satisfaction with life, attitude toward health and disease, attitude toward intervention, exercise habits and methodical skills).

Conclusion: Identified barriers and facilitators could guide healthcare professionals to facilitate the discussion of physical activity behaviour and to address them in a personalized way during neuromuscular rehabilitation treatment.