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Experiences of recovery and rehabilitation from surgery to treat neurogenic claudication. A qualitative study

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: PURPOSE: This study aimed to explore the experiences, expectations, attitudes and beliefs about surgery and recovery in people with neurogenic claudication, and their preferences for rehabilitation. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 16 patients (8 female; mean age 70 years) following surgery for neurogenic claudication. Data were transcribed verbatim, analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and interpreted using the five constructs of the Integrative Model of Expectations: treatment, timeline, behaviour, outcome, and generalised expectations. FINDINGS: . Participants expressed a preference for tailored, supervised rehabilitation commencing 2-6 weeks post-surgery. Some participants preferred one-to-one and some group-based rehabilitation. Some participants thought pre-operative rehabilitation would be beneficial. CONCLUSIONS: Patient's experiences and satisfaction with their care and outcome are heavily influenced by their expectations. Tailored rehabilitation should reframe unrealistic expectations regarding care, recovery, and ultimate outcome; educate patients on the biopsychosocial model of pain; and equip patients with the knowledge and skills to optimise their outcome.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONPeople with neurogenic claudication interpret their condition, symptoms, and recovery from surgery through a mechanistic, biomedical lens.The experience and recovery from surgery for neurogenic claudication can be unexpectedly challenging and burdensome.Healthcare professionals should support patients by helping to set realistic expectations of post-operative care, recovery, and outcome from surgery.People undergoing surgery for neurogenic claudication want rehabilitation, personalised to their individual circumstances and requirements.

Source: Disability and Rehabilitation

DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2024.2442531

Authors: Suzanne McIlroy, Lisa Brighton, John Weinman, Sam Norton, Lindsay Bearne

Institutions: King's College London, King's College Hospital, City St George's, University of London

Language: English

Topic: Musculoskeletal pain and rehabilitation

Subfield: Pharmacology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: National Institute for Health and Care Research, Dunhill Medical Trust, Economic and Social Research Council, National Institute for Health Research Applied Research Collaboration South London