Managing Achilles Pain (the MAP study)– A process evaluation of data collection methods

Mallows, Adrian; Littlewood, Chris; Jackson, Jo; Debenham, James

Abstract

Background: Process evaluations explore the way in which a study was conducted. The Managing Achilles Pain study (MAP study)had the primary aim of assessing the feasibility of the protocol for a future large longitudinal cohort study that would investigate the association and predictive relationship of self-efficacy, working alliance and expectations with outcome in the management of Achilles tendinopathy. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the processes conducted in the MAP study by exploring the acceptability of the study procedures from the participants' and physiotherapists' perspectives. Design: A qualitative evaluation using semi-structured telephone interviews. Method: All physiotherapists and participants who participated in the MAP study were invited. Data from physiotherapists (n = 6)and participants (n = 7)were transcribed and analysed using the Framework Approach. Findings: From the physiotherapists' perspective 4 themes were identified relating to obstacles; (1)access to participants; (2)recall; (3)visibility; (4)time, and 4 themes were identified relating to facilitating success; (1)training; (2)motivation; (3)incentives; (4)simplicity. From the participants' perspective 2 themes were identified relating to obstacles; (1)information from the physiotherapist; (2)follow up, 3 themes were identified relating to facilitating success; (1)motivation; (2)website; (3)questionnaire, and 1 theme relating to unintended consequences of participating in the study; positive experience. Conclusions: Although clinicians are enthused to be involved in research, organisational factors impact levels of engagement. Key influences to optimising the potential success of a study include the publicising of the study; optimising verbal recruitment strategies; and clarity in communication.

Citation

Mallows, A., Littlewood, C., Jackson, J., & Debenham, J. (2019). Managing Achilles Pain (the MAP study)– A process evaluation of data collection methods. Musculoskeletal Science and Practice, 42, 60--66. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msksp.2019.04.008

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Apr 12, 2019
• Publication Date: 2019-01
• Deposit Date: Dec 11, 2024
• Journal: Musculoskeletal Science and Practice
• Print ISSN: 2468-7812
• Electronic ISSN: 2468-7812
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 42
• Pages: 60--66
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msksp.2019.04.008
• Related Public URLs: https://repository.essex.ac.uk/24511/
• PMID: 31039454