The co‐design of an exercise‐based, lifestyle intervention for people with venous leg ulcers; a self‐care, expert‐supported strategy for a chronic condition

• DOI: 10.1111/iwj.14117
• Publication Date: 2023-03-08T09:18:07Z
• Authors: Emma McIntosh; Michelle Horspool; Maria Levesley; Pip Logan; Markos Klonizakis
• Keywords: Self Care; Chronic Disease; Leg Ulcer; Humans; Original Articles; Life Style; 3. Good health; Exercise Therapy; Varicose Ulcer

Abstract Exercise is recommended as an adjunct treatment, alongside compression therapy to increase venous leg ulcer (VLU) wound healing times, however, there are no published programmes available that support patients exercise at home on their own. To develop exercise‐based lifestyle intervention feasible and acceptable people with VLUs, a participatory approach was utilised. Clinicians, researchers, living VLUs collaborated in the design of “FISCU Home”. Two focus groups nine interviews were conducted VLU. Tissue viability nurses provided clinical expertise. Data analysed through thematic analysis. Ten key themes identified incorporated into FISCU Home: (I) condition‐specific flexible programme, (II) personal assessment tailored exercises, (III) tapered individualised support, (IV) short lower‐intensity sessions, (V) chair‐based options, (VI) falls prevention, (VII) accessible resources, (VIII) functional, compact, self‐managed (IX) behaviour change strategy, (X) education. Home has integrated patients' needs preferences evidence‐based principles theory create for VLUs. could provide mainstream care movement towards self‐management.