Physical activity in children with epilepsy in China: A mixed-method study

To identify the physical activity levels and influencing factors of children with epilepsy in China.

This study was designed as a sequential explanatory mixed-method study. The quantitative phase included a sample of 195 children with epilepsy and their caregivers from November 2023 to April 2024. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the independent t-tests, and one-way analysis of variance. The qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and a total of 8 children and 15 caregivers were interviewed from May 2024 to June 2024. The content analysis was conducted using the MaxQda software. Interpretative thematic analysis was used to explore the multidimensions of physical activity. The following joint display analysis was used to integrate quantitative and qualitative data.

Children with epilepsy tend to have limited physical activity and engage in a limited variety of activities, influenced by the multidimensional factors. Through joint display, five meta-themes and thirteen meta-subthemes were identified, including limited physical activity (insufficient physical activity and preference for simple activity types), misconceptions (excessive limitations, few concerns, and fear of seizure-related injury), personal factors (disease burden, personal characteristic, and the stigma), family and school factors (influenced by caregivers knowledge, parental and family support, and school support), and healthcare factors (the advice and attitudes of healthcare staff).

The research highlights the importance of supporting the physical activity of children with epilepsy. Epilepsy nurses should incorporate physical activity education and counseling into their routine clinical care, and develop targeted interventions to encourage regular physical activity.

Epilepsy nurses should prioritize correcting misconceptions about physical activity in children with epilepsy. During clinical consultations, epilepsy nurses should implement tailored activity programs and provide individualized education and counseling.