ABSTRACT
Background: Aquatic Physiotherapy (AP) is utilised to improve impairments and function in people following a stroke. While there are several systematic reviews investigating the efficacy of AP, there is limited understanding of how this intervention is experienced by people, particularly in the sub-acute phase (within the first six months) following a stroke.
Aim: To understand how people have experienced rehabilitation programs that included aquatic therapy within the first six months following a stroke.
Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was undertaken involving semi-structured interviews of people following a stroke. These explored their perceived benefits of participating in AP; any limitations to participation; and differences between land-based rehabilitation interventions and AP. Semi-structured interviews were transcribed and two researchers used inductive and deductive coding, with reflexive thematic analysis, to identify common themes.
Results: A total of 10 people participated in semi-structured interviews. Qualitative themes identified: widespread benefits to undertaking AP during the sub-acute phase of stroke rehabilitation; few limitations to participation; and limited opportunities to continue with engagement in AP in the community. Multiple people reflected that participating in AP positively impacted on their belief regarding their ongoing stroke recovery.
Conclusion: Aquatic physiotherapy is a highly acceptable type of intervention being delivered to people following sub-acute stroke. People following stroke reported physical, psychological and social benefits to engagement, which should contribute to future research and clinical service planning.