Virtual care exercise interventions in multidisciplinary chronic pain clinics: a qualitative study of perspectives of adults living with chronic pain.

PURPOSE: Chronic pain affects 1 in 4 Canadians and is a leading contributor of disability. Although virtual care has become more prevalent, it is unclear how adults living with chronic pain perceive virtual delivery of exercise interventions within multidisciplinary chronic pain clinics (MCPC). This study explores the perspectives of adults living with chronic pain regarding their perceived barriers and facilitators and recommendations when implementing virtual care exercise interventions within MCPCs. METHODS: We conducted an interpretive description qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews with adults (age ≥18 years) living with chronic pain from a MCPC in Toronto, Canada, between March 1 and April 30, 2021. RESULTS: We completed fifteen (N = 15) interviews of adults living with chronic pain. We identified eight themes that addressed the study objectives: 1) virtual care supplements in-person care, 2) virtual care improves accessibility, 3) impact of technology on participation, 4) navigating the home environment, 5) impact of pain on participation, 6) impact of supervision and feedback, 7) the need for tailored care, and 8) the need for preparation and additional support. CONCLUSION: Our results reveal that adults living with chronic pain view virtual care exercise interventions positively however, the implementation of these interventions must be carefully considered within MCPCs. Specifically, virtual care was considered an excellent adjunct to in-person care but should not replace it completely.Implications for RehabilitationChronic pain is a leading contributor of disability.Exercise interventions are recommended component of comprehensive pain management.Virtual delivery of exercise interventions are becoming more prevalent.Adults living with chronic pain view virtual care exercise interventions positively as they can supplement in-person care and improve access to this type of care.

Evaluating the Acceptability of Low-Cost Standing Desks in the Home Environment: An Exploratory Study.

Background: Many studies have attempted to mitigate the negative health consequences of sedentary behavior (SB) in the work environment using standing desks. However, no studies have explored the use of standing desks in the home. Purpose: To evaluate interest, factors influencing desk usage, and acceptability of a low-cost standing desk in the home. Methods: Participants (adults aged 18-65 years living in university residential areas) received a low-cost standing desk, and completed online surveys at baseline and 4 weeks to assess leisure SB. After 4 weeks, participants completed a phone interview to assess level of engagement and acceptability. A follow-up interview was conducted at 6 months. A descriptive content analysis was conducted. Results: A total of 71 participants were recruited, with 55 and 49 participants completing the 4-week and 6-month interview, respectively. At 4 weeks, there was a self-reported decline in weekday leisure SB (P < .05), but not on weekend days. Approximately 75% of interviewed participants reported using the desk every week. After 6 months, 21 participants (30%) were still using the desk. Conclusion: This study indicates interest in using standing desks in the home. Future research could examine the behavioral and health impact of SB interventions in this setting.