Goal-directed therapeutic exercise for paediatric posterior fossa brain tumour survivors: a qualitative analysis of experiences

Purpose To explore child and parent experiences of a 12-week goal-directed therapeutic exercise intervention in paediatric posterior fossa brain tumours survivors and to identify features of the program that influenced program adherence and acceptability. Methods Eleven interviews were conducted; five parent-child dyads (mothers = 83%) and one parent only (mean child age = 10.6 ± 3.0 years; 83% male). Posterior fossa brain tumour survivors, who participated in a weekly goal-directed exercise program for 12 weeks, completed semi-structured interviews to discuss their experience of the program. An inductive content analysis was undertaken. Interviews were transcribed, imported into NVivo and independently coded by two reviewers. Code and content categories were iteratively discussed and refined. Results Five content categories were generated: (1) perceived improvements, (2) program logistics, (3) activity selection, (4) connection with the therapist and (5) options for technology. All participants valued the tailored exercise program and described improvements in movement competence. Children and their parents discussed preferring home- and community-based locations and favoured face-to-face delivery. Occasionally, parents reported difficulty completing the home program due to low child motivation or family time restrictions. Multiple families suggested an interactive digital application would be an effective delivery channel for the supplemental home-based program. Conclusion A goal-directed exercise program delivered at home and in community-based locations was considered valuable and helpful for improving movement competence in paediatric survivors of posterior fossa brain tumour. Trial registration ACTRN12619000841178 June 12, 2019