Perceived barriers and facilitators for increasing the physical activity of adolescents and young adults with cerebral palsy: a focus group study

Purpose Identifying the factors impacting physical activity (PA) among adolescents and young adults with cerebral palsy (CP). Methods Four focus groups were conducted, with a total of 22 participants with CP, aged 14-24 years, Gross Motor Function Classification (GMFCS) I-III. Our qualitative analysis drew on grounded theory and used Atlas software. Results Findings revealed four categories of factors impacting PA: (1) Musculoskeletal-pain and additional impairments related to activity limitations; (2) knowledge and exercising skills, and life skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, planning and organizing; (3) availability: lack of transportation, professional guidance, adapted and community-based programs, especially enjoyable activities; (4) social support from professionals (mainly physiotherapists) and peer support with socializing opportunities. Many opposed parental involvement. Those who attended special education schools and had moderate to severe learning disabilities saw PA as an opportunity for social contacts, limited by lack of availability. Those in mainstream schools with mild to no learning disabilities used PA for relieving pain and preserving function, limited by difficulty balancing PA and life goals. Conclusions Service providers should inculcate knowledge and active-living skills during the transition to adulthood. Professional guidance needed to ensure inclusion in communal PA and offer adapted programs for young people with CP.

Automated summary

The study identified various factors impacting physical activity among individuals with cerebral palsy, including musculoskeletal pain, life skills, availability, and social support. Different attitudes and uses of physical activity were observed among patients from different schools and with varying degrees of learning disabilities.