| Abstrakt: |
Background: Walking is a recommended but underused treatment for people with intermittent claudication (IC). This study investigated the feasibility and acceptability of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluating a novel physiotherapist-led intervention targeting walking in people with IC. Method: Qualitative semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of people with IC and a physiotherapist who participated in a feasibility RCT comparing MOtivating Structured walking Activity in Intermittent Claudication (MOSAIC) to an attention-control. Audio-recorded, transcribed data were analysed using the Framework Method. Results/Findings: A total of 12 participants with IC (n = 5 females, mean age 68 ± 10 years) and 1 physiotherapist (female, Agenda to Change Band 6) were included. Four themes were identified: (1) acceptability of the research process and protocol (i.e. experiences of assessments and appointments, and suggestions for improving the study conduct); (2) acceptability of the treatment and attention-control interventions (i.e. format and content of interventions, including mode of delivery, information provision, and materials); (3) perceived expectations and outcomes of the treatment and attention-control interventions (i.e. prior expectations and outcomes including cognitions, behaviour-change, and walking ability); (4) physiotherapist role as a person and professional (i.e. participant expectations of physiotherapy, individual qualities, expertise, consistency, and relationship building). Discussion: Participants and the physiotherapist supported the feasibility and acceptability of the RCT and MOSAIC and highlighted the importance of the therapeutic relationship. Refinements to the trial process and MOSAIC were made. Conclusion: This study demonstrated the feasibility and acceptability of an RCT evaluating a behaviour-change intervention targeting walking to participants with IC and a physiotherapist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
