Original Research Physical activity in rehabilitation practice: Policy, infrastructure and development perspectives

Onika Makaula, Ntandoyenkosi L. Msomi, Andrew J. Ross

About the author(s) Onika Makaula, Department of Public Health Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
Ntandoyenkosi L. Msomi, Department of Family Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
Andrew J. Ross, Department of Family Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Integrating physical activity (PA) into rehabilitation practice is critical for promoting patient recovery and high quality of life. However, policy gaps, infrastructure constraints and resource limitations often hinder its effective implementation, particularly in public health care settings.

Methods: An inductive thematic analysis of virtual individual semi-structured interviews with therapists was conducted via NVivo. Participants (N = 10) shared insights on their perspectives of integrating PA into rehabilitation practices regarding policy, infrastructure and development.

Results: Ten subthemes emerged related to policy (two subthemes), infrastructure (four subthemes) and development (four subthemes) of PA in rehabilitation practice.

Conclusion: While PA is essential for holistic patient care, therapists face systemic barriers that require policy reforms, interprofessional collaboration and investment in resources and infrastructure. Creative strategies currently mitigate these challenges but remain limited in scope of practice.

Contribution: This article documents the need for policy development and resource allocation to better integrate PA into rehabilitation, whilst addressing key developmental and infrastructure gaps.

Keywords

physical activity; infrastructure; rehabilitation; policy; occupational therapy; speech-language therapy; development.

Sustainable Development Goal

Goal 3: Good health and well-being

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