Promoting physical activity after stroke via self management : protocol for a feasibility study

Background: Many risk factors for stroke are modifiable with physical activity, yet physical activity levels are low in stroke survivors. In Australia, 45% of stroke survivors go directly home from acute services, yet ongoing exercise programs are not routinely available. Self-management has been beneficial in getting people to manage their own health across various chronic health diseases and is beginning to attract attention in stroke. However, the effects on physical activity levels have not been examined in stroke survivors. This study will investigate whether self-management is a feasible and effective strategy for promoting physical activity in stroke survivors. Methods and design: Forty stroke survivors being discharged directly home will be recruited from acute stroke units. Participants will have no contraindications to exercise, and will be cognitively and physically able to complete the assessments and self-management program. The self management program will be implemented in 5 sessions over 3 months. It will incorporate i) education about physical activity ii) negotiation of a physical activity plan, taking into account goals and preferences; iii) problem solving, support and encouragement, and iv) monitoring and support of behaviour change. The primary outcome measures will be physical activity. Secondary outcome measures will be health indicators, mobility, quality of life and exercise self-efficacy. Discussion: If self-management is found to be feasible, it will be investigated in a large scale randomised trial of stroke sufferers. If feasible, self-management also has the potential to be implemented within the existing Medicare extended care package scheme.1 page(s