Understanding Why Patients Stick With Home Exercise Programs

This research study is investigating why some patients stick with home exercise programs prescribed by their doctors while others struggle to keep up. Researchers will enroll 252 patients with musculoskeletal conditions—including degenerative disorders like arthritis, people recovering from orthopedic surgery, and those rehabilitating after a stroke—and provide each with a personalized exercise program designed for their specific condition.

Home exercise programs are a key part of rehabilitation and treatment, but doctors have noticed that not all patients follow through consistently. By understanding what factors influence whether patients stick with their exercises—such as age, pain level, job status, motivation, and emotional well-being—researchers hope to develop better strategies to help patients succeed with their at-home rehabilitation.