Self-efficacy and its effect on step count in patients with intermittent claudication after endovascular...

Endovascular intervention is often associated with improvements in physical function in patients with peripheral artery disease. Self-efficacy, the belief in one's ability to successfully carry out specific behaviors, is a well-established determinant of exercise engagement in diverse populations, including those with peripheral artery disease. However, the role of self-efficacy in maintaining basic and instrumental activities of daily living following endovascular intervention is unclear.

To investigate the relationship between self-efficacy and functioning, walking capacity, and emotional well-being in patients with peripheral artery disease before and after endovascular interventions.

Twenty-eight individuals with peripheral artery disease presenting with either intermittent claudication or critical limb-threatening ischemia-who underwent endovascular interventions participated in this study. Standardized questionnaires were used to assess self-efficacy, anxiety, and depression. Daily-steps were calculated by a smartwatch. Independence in performing daily living activities was assessed using the modified Barthel Activities of Daily-Living Index and the independence in instrumental activities of daily-living questionnaire. Data was collected before the intervention (T1), at three months (T2), and at six months post-intervention (T3); this design enabled a comprehensive analysis of changes over time.

Initially, higher self-efficacy correlated with better functioning of daily activities (r = 0.437, p < 0.01) and instrumental activities (r = 0.475, p < 0.01). At six months, higher self-efficacy correlated positively with all domains, including increased step count (r = 0.555, p < 0.01). Self-efficacy had a significant negative correlation with reported anxiety (r = -0.574, p < 0.01) and depression levels (r = -0.622, p < 0.01) post-treatment. A positive association was observed between female sex and self-efficacy in those with initially high self-efficacy levels.

Self-efficacy influences outcomes such as functional abilities, physical activity, and mental wellness in patients with peripheral artery disease following endovascular interventions.