Supporting People With Musculoskeletal Conditions From Underserved Communities in the United Kingdom to Engage With Physical Activity: A Realist Synthesis and Q-Methodology Study.

Abstract

Background: In the United Kingdom, 20 million individuals suffer from a musculoskeletal condition, for which physical activity (PA) is a core treatment. Minority ethnic communities experience a disproportionate impact, experiencing higher levels of pain and engaging in less PA. Research has identified various factors that affect their participation in PA, including lack of access to support, limited knowledge of resources, language barriers, fear of racial harassment while exercising, and insufficient communication/information from healthcare professionals.

Methods: This project adopted a realist perspective, aiming to understand "what works, in which circumstances, and for whom?" The project had 4 steps: (1) defining review scope with stakeholders; (2) searching and extracting literature, creation of initial program theories; (3) refining/validating initial program theories with stakeholders; and (4) adopting Q-methodology to highlight priority areas.

Results: 17 papers were included. Three program theories were identified: (1) Lack of initial access to health service support; (2) Nature of musculoskeletal self-management support-the importance of the therapeutic relationship and value of shared conversations; and (3) Accessible long-term support for PA engagement. The Q-sort exercise highlighted priority areas: (1) complex booking procedures and inadequate translation services, (2) time constraints impact effective patient-centered care, (3) dismissive attitudes/mismatched expectations impact shared decision making, (4) rebuilding trust to strengthen therapeutic relationships, (5) cultural relevance in developing therapeutic relationships, and (6) clinician recommended PA opportunities increase knowledge of PA.

Conclusions: Our findings shed light on inequities across the UK's musculoskeletal pathways, specifically in relation to PA engagement. This points toward priority areas for future research and interventions.