PHysical Activity for Non-ambulatory Stroke Survivors (PHANSS-2): Developing a Feasible and Acceptable Intervention for Stroke Survivors Who Cannot Walk Independently

Background:

Physical activity interventions after stroke are needed because stroke survivors are under-active; their average physical fitness level is about 50% of sedentary healthy controls. This adversely affects vascular risk factor profiles, disability and participation, problems that are all likely to be exacerbated in stroke survivors who are unable to walk. Fitness can be improved after stroke through cardiorespiratory training. This also improves psychosocial functioning and adaptation to life after stroke. Community-based services for exercise after stroke are developing throughout the UK. However, current evidence, associated guidelines and exercise professional training mainly pertain to ambulatory stroke survivors; non-ambulatory stroke survivors have hardly been involved in this area of research. In this study, we define "non-ambulatory" as requiring at least "continuous or intermittent support of one person to help with balance or coordination" (i.e. Functional Ambulatory Category ≤ 2).

Study aim:

The aim of this study is to design a physical activity programme for non-ambulatory stroke survivors (delivered via either community-based groups or a home-based individual programme) and evaluate its feasibility, acceptability, preliminary and adverse effects. The study will also explore the views of non-ambulatory stroke survivors and their carers on: needs, personal goals, barriers, and motivators, experiences of programme participated in and preferred format (i.e. home-based individual/ community-based groups).

Study design: