Integrating Behaviour Change Conversations into Physiotherapy

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    Developing a Training Programme and Real Time Support for Physiotherapists to integrate Behaviour Change Conversations into their Clinical Practice.

  • IRAS ID

    342767

  • Contact name

    Rachel Chester

  • Contact email

    r.chester@uea.ac.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    University of East Anglia

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    1 years, 2 months, 26 days

  • Research summary

    Background:
    Two thirds of people with musculoskeletal conditions do not follow self-management advice or carry out their home exercises. Barriers include forgetfulness, and a belief that exercises may not be beneficial. “Behaviour Change Techniques” can reduce barriers and increase facilitators to exercise. Examples include goal setting and action planning.

    Why is this research important:
    This research will identify the Behaviour Change Techniques most useful in reducing barriers and increasing facilitators to exercise and assist physiotherapists to integrate these techniques into practice.

    Study Aim:
    This project will develop a training package for physiotherapists and resources so they can better support their patients with behaviour change. The resources will include a patient questionnaire, tools linking barriers and facilitators to Behaviour Change Techniques, and a personalised report for patient and physiotherapist.

    Potential benefits:
    This project aims to help patients with musculoskeletal conditions overcome barriers to completing home exercises and following self-management advice. Ultimately, improved adherence to self-management advice and home exercise programmes will reduce the risk of ongoing pain and disability and, potentially, reduce demand for health services.

    Participant involvement:
    Twelve patients and 12 physiotherapists with a range of experiences will attend four workshops, with the option of attending face to face or on-line. Participants will prioritise which barriers, facilitators, and behaviour change techniques are most important. Each workshop will include five breakout groups. There will be structured cycles of thinking time, group discussion and online anonymous voting.

    Output:
    Eight stakeholders will help translate the findings from the workshops and co-design the training and support.

    Funding:
    This research is funded by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy Charitable Trust.

    Recruitment:
    Patients and Physiotherapists will be recruited from 3 NHS centres in East Anglia, and if needed, from outside the NHS via the Research User Group (RUG) at Keele University and our local physiotherapy network.

  • REC name

    London - Brent Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    24/LO/0532

  • Date of REC Opinion

    15 Aug 2024

  • REC opinion

    Further Information Favourable Opinion