EXPLORING FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH ADHERENCE TO WEIGHT-BEARING EXERCISE AMONG POSTOPERATIVE LOWER LIMB FRACTURE PATIENTS

Aprisunadi Aprisunadi, Ida Ida

Abstract


Lower limb fractures can significantly impair mobility and quality of life. Weight-bearing exercise is a key component of postoperative rehabilitation; however, patient adherence remains a challenge. Objective: This study aimed to explore factors associated with adherence to weight-bearing exercise among postoperative lower limb fracture patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a type-B public referral hospital in West Java, Indonesia, from November 2025 to March 2026, involving 70 respondents selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using the chi-square test. Results: Most respondents were adherent (81.43%). Adherence was significantly associated with knowledge (p=0.024), self-efficacy (p=0.006), social support (p<0.001), pain-related barriers (p=0.006), accessibility (p=0.002), and fracture location (p=0.024). Sociodemographic factors were not significantly associated (p>0.05). Discussion: These findings suggest that psychological, social, and accessibility-related factors play a more dominant role than demographic characteristics. Social support and self-efficacy enhance adherence, while pain and limited access act as key barriers. Conclusion: Adherence to weight-bearing exercise is influenced by modifiable factors. Interventions focusing on patient education, self-efficacy enhancement, social support, pain management, and improved access to healthcare services are essential to optimize rehabilitation outcomes.

Keywords: adherence, lower limb fracture, rehabilitation, weight-bearing exercise


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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.32419/jppni.v11i1.917

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