Patient experiences and the psychosocial benefits of group aquatic exercise to reduce symptoms of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: a pilot study

ABSTRACT

Background: The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of participants in a short aquatic exercise programme for individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and to gain insight into the perceived psychosocial benefits. Methods: The exercise programme was of five-weeks duration, with two self-paced aquatic sessions per week. Eleven female participants (mean age 54.8 ± 12.4 yr) reported the onset and changes (24–48 h) in post-exercise fatigue, pain and other symptoms after each session, and completed a post-intervention interview comprising nine open-ended questions, with additional discussions. The reported symptoms and interview responses were entered into a spreadsheet, grouped and coded to identify the themes and subthemes. Results: The main themes were ‘symptoms’, ‘benefits’, ‘engagement and compliance’, and ‘limitations’. The analysis found that group aquatic exercises reduced social isolation through shared experiences and enhanced support; were beneficial and enjoyable without exacerbating symptoms; were preferable to other modes of exercise; and were seen as a long-term exercise option. Participants reported a reduction in pain, fatigue and anxiety after the intervention. Conclusions: Psychosocial benefits suggest that self-paced group aquatic exercise is a safe, enjoyable and effective mode of exercise rehabilitation for people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

KEYWORDS:

• ME/CFS
• fibromyalgia
• aqua exercise
• patient experience
• qualitative

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Suzanne Broadbent

Dr Suzanne Broadbent is an Associate Professor in Clinical Exercise Physiology and an accredited Exercise Physiologist at University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia. Her research interests include exercise immunology and rehabilitation for ME/CFS, cancer and fatiguing illnesses.

Sonja Coetzee

Dr Sonja Coetzee is a lecturer and accredited Exercise Physiologist at University of the Sunshine Coast, with research interests in ME/CFS, metabolic conditions and exercise rehabilitation.

Rosalind Beavers

Dr Rosalind Beavers is a lecturer at Southern Cross University, NSW, and an accredited Exercise Physiologist with research interests in aquatic exercise and rehabilitation for chronic conditions.

Louise Horstmanshof

Dr Louise Horstmanshof is a senior lecturer, registered psychologist and Director of Post Graduate Education at Southern Cross University, with research interests in healthcare and allied health education.