Rehabilitation goals described by patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases: content and attainment during the first year after rehabilitation

Abstract

Purpose We explored the content and attainment of rehabilitation goals the first year after rehabilitation among patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. Methods Participants (n = 523) recorded goals in the Patient Specific Functional Scale at admission and reported goal attainment at admission, discharge, and 12 months after rehabilitation on an 11-point numeric rating scale. Goal content was linked to the ICF coding system and summarized as high, maintained, or no attainment. Changes in absolute scores were investigated using paired samples t-tests. Results Goals had high attainment with a significant positive change (–1.83 [95% CI −2.0, −1.65], p > 0.001) during rehabilitation, whereas goals had no attainment with a significant negative change (0.36 [0.14, 0.57], p > 0.001) between discharge and 12 months after rehabilitation. Goals focusing on everyday routines, physical health, pain management, and social or work participation were highly attained during rehabilitation. Goals that were difficult to enhance or maintain after rehabilitation addressed everyday routines, physical health, and work participation. Conclusion The positive changes in goal attainment largely occurred during rehabilitation, but they appeared more difficult to maintain at home. Therefore, rehabilitation goals should be reflected in the follow-up care planned at discharge. Implications for rehabilitation The contents of rehabilitation goals reflect the complexity and wide range of challenges patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases experience. Positive changes in goal attainment largely occur during rehabilitation and appear to be more difficult to enhance or maintain at home. Rehabilitation interventions and follow-up care should be tailored to support patients in maintaining their attained goals for healthy self-management. Rehabilitation goals should be reflected in the follow-up care planned at discharge.