Logo image
Back
Patient experiences and the psychosocial benefits of group aquatic exercise to reduce symptoms of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: a pilot study
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Patient experiences and the psychosocial benefits of group aquatic exercise to reduce symptoms of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: a pilot study

Suzanne Broadbent, Sonja Coetzee, Rosalind Beavers and Louise Horstmanshof
Fatigue, Vol.8(2), pp.84-96
2020
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/21641846.2020.1751455
url
https://doi.org/10.1080/21641846.2020.1751455View
Published Version

Abstract

ME/CFS fibromyalgia aqua exercise patient experience qualitative
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

Metrics

55 Record Views
3 Times Cited - Web of Science

InCites Highlights

These are selected metrics from InCites Benchmarking & Analytics tool, related to this output

Collaboration types
Domestic collaboration
Web Of Science research areas
Medicine, Research & Experimental

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This output has contributed to the advancement of the following goals:

#3 Good Health and Well-Being

Source: InCites

Logo image