Participant experiences in a feasibility trial of supervised exercise training in adults with venous leg ulcers: A qualitative study

Background: Exercise training may improve lower-limb cutaneous microvascular reactivity and clinical outcomes in adults with venous leg ulceration, however, there is a lack of research on patients views about the acceptability and feasibility of exercise interventions. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore participants experiences of a trial. Exploring the Feasibility of Implementing a Supervised Exercise Training and Compression Hosiery Intervention in Patients with Venous Ulceration (FISCU). Methods: Semi-structured face-to-face and telephone interviews were utilised to investigate participants experiences (n=16) of taking part in the FISCU trial. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Three overarching themes were identified and eleven subthemes: (1) Sedentary cautious living (due to; pain and reduced mobility; treatment and perceived control; and advice to rest and be careful). (2) Key components of the exercise trial (including motivation; a individualised intervention supervised by a specialist exercise professional; and satisfaction with the intervention). (3) Benefits of exercise (physical benefits and healing; psychological wellbeing; positive impact on co-morbidities; and an improved self-management strategy). Discussion: This study found that an exercise intervention was viewed by participants as positive, acceptable and a feasible whilst living with a venous leg ulcer. An individualised and supervised exercise programme was key to build confidence to exercise.