Perceptions and experiences of health professionals when supporting adults with stroke to engage in physical activity

Background Understanding health professional perceptions and experiences when supporting post-stroke physical activity may assist with development of strategies targeting low physical activity observed in this group. The aims of this study were to explore health professionals' perceptions and experiences of post-stroke physical activity, the barriers they experience and potential facilitators when supporting people with stroke to be active. Methods Ten focus groups were conducted with 57 health professionals (physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nurses, exercise physiologists, psychologists and sports scientists) and allied health students. Data were analysed via inductive thematic analysis. Results Health professionals were reluctant to recommend moderate intensity physical activity. Barriers included: (1) post-stroke barriers being varied and individual; (2) resources being under pressure and (3) physical activity goals falling through the cracks. Suggested facilitators included: (1) clearly defined roles, processes and environments which encourage activity; (2) funding for more staff; (3) improving health professional skills and confidence and (4) using internal motivation and social supports after stroke. Conclusions Post-stroke physical activity is a complex goal. Varied and individual barriers require tailored solutions. Health professionals report insufficient time, resources and skills to address these individual barriers as well as limited pathways to access physical activity support. Resource-efficient interventions and care models that allow routine strategies targeting post-stroke physical activity are required.