Use of physical activity by occupational therapists and speech-language therapists in KwaZulu-Natal

Abstract

Background: Physical activity (PA) plays an important role in rehabilitation by promoting emotional well-being, functional independence, and both physical and cognitive recovery. Although its application in rehabilitation varies, both occupational therapists and speech and language therapists incorporate PA to address individualised patient needs.
Objective: We explored the use of PA by occupational therapists and speech and language therapists in the integration of PA in treatment.
Methods: Ten therapists participated in virtual semi-structured interviews to explore their use of PA in patient treatment. A directed content analysis guided by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework was employed. NVivo software facilitated the coding of data into pre-established ICF categories: body structures and functions, activities and participation, and environmental factors.
Results: Therapists used PA to achieve endurance, strength and cognitive recovery (body structures and functions); promote engagement in meaningful tasks (activities and participation); and identify environmental barriers and facilitators, such as resource constraints and interdisciplinary collaboration (environmental factors).
Conclusion: PA is regarded as a valuable therapeutic tool across ICF domains, with its optimal use in public sector facilities being hindered by institutional challenges, including staff shortages and limited resources.
Contribution: This study contributes to the understanding of how occupational therapists and speech and language therapists integrate PA into rehabilitation, capturing practical clinical strategies aligned with the ICF framework.