Exploring patient perspectives, socioeconomic status and beliefs on rehabilitation after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: A qualitative study

Background: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) surgery is often recommended to reduce pain, restore function, and improve quality of life in patients with rotator cuff tears. Several factors can influence how effectively patients manage their pain, follow rehabilitation guidelines, and perceive their overall recovery, including patient perspectives, socioeconomic status, and beliefs on rehabilitation. Understanding these characteristics is crucial to optimizing patient outcomes and modifying rehabilitation approaches to meet specific patient requirements. Objective: To obtain an in-depth understanding of patient perspectives, socioeconomic status, and beliefs on rehabilitation after ARCR. Methods: This qualitative study consisted of face-to-face semi-structured interviews with 13 participants who underwent ARCR. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analysed using a six-step approach as proposed by Braun and Clarke. Results: The mean age of the included participants was 53 ± 8.07 years, with 76% being male with most of the participants belonging to lower middle and upper lower socioeconomic status. Three major themes emerged from the interview: 1) Role of healthcare provider, 2) Socio-environmental factors, and 3) Cognitive-behavioural response. Conclusion: Our findings imply that rehabilitation strategies should incorporate a more comprehensive patient-centred approach that considers a wider range of factors influencing compliance with therapy and overall rehabilitation.