Experiences and coping with kinesiophobia in patients with post-stroke limb dysfunction: a qualitative study

Kinesiophobia is a major barrier to post-stroke rehabilitation, yet lived experience and support needs of stroke survivors with limb dysfunction remain poorly understood. This study explored the experiences, coping responses, and support needs related to kinesiophobia in this population.

: A phenomenological qualitative design was adopted. Fifteen stroke survivors with clinically significant kinesiophobia were recruited using purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and analyzed using Colaizzi's seven-step method, guided by the fear-avoidance model.

Three overarching themes were identified. The first theme described the development and reinforcement of kinesiophobia, driven by post-stroke physiological changes, distorted bodily perceptions, fear generalization following traumatic experiences, and caregiver overprotection. The second theme captured coping strategies, including active movement avoidance, reliance on external support for safety, and cognitive-behavioral adjustment that enabled some participants to continue rehabilitation despite fear. The third theme reflected external support needs and challenges, particularly insufficient professional guidance after discharge, fragmented family and social support, and financial constraints, which contributed to uncertainty and reduced rehabilitation participation.

Kinesiophobia among stroke survivors with limb dysfunction is shaped by interacting physical, psychological, and social experiences. Addressing these dimensions may inform future assessment frameworks and rehabilitation approaches.