AB1478-HPR Promoting exercise in rheumatic diseases: physical therapists’ understanding

Background Physical therapists have unique expertise in planning, prescribing and supporting exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases. Promoting exercise can be a challenge and include a range of strategies, but descriptions of physical therapists’ experiences within the field of rheumatology are limited. Objectives The purpose of this study was to explore and describe ways of understanding exercise promotion among physical therapists working with patients having rheumatic diseases. Methods A phenomenographic approach was used to analyse semi-structured interviews with 25 physical therapists, working primarily within the field of rheumatology, from eight different physical therapy departments at hospitals in various cities of Sweden. Results Four categories related to the promotion of exercise were identified: to tell and monitor; to identify and pilot; to discuss and enable; and to listen and inspire. Key aspects were responsibility, setting and supervision, tools to support change and the role as an educator. The findings are interpreted as a hierarchically organised structure, where the understandings of the PTs differ in respect to comprehensiveness regarding some aspects of interaction and collaboration with the patients. Conclusions Physical therapists working with patients having rheumatic diseases understand exercise promotion in different ways and these understandings differ in respect to comprehensiveness, which might lead to unequal promotion. A more comprehensive repertoire would probably make physical therapists more prepared to meet patients’ needs for different strategies in the adoption and maintenance of exercise behaviours. Disclosure of Interest None declared