Beyond the lungs: patients’ experiences of musculoskeletal symptoms and manual therapy in cystic fibrosis care – A qualitative interview study

ABSTRACT Background Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a severe hereditary disease that affects multiple organ systems. Among these, the musculoskeletal system is an under-explored area. This interview study aimed to explore experiences of musculoskeletal symptoms and of manual therapies as complementary care in this context. Methods Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from ten respondents. The data were subsequently analyzed through content analysis with an inductive approach in accordance with the method of Elo and Kyngäs. Results The analysis resulted in three main categories; 1) Living with CF involves musculoskeletal health challenges, 2) Manual therapies impact daily life for people with CF, and 3) People with CF aspire for broader and more collaborative respiratory care. Conclusion The respondents described musculoskeletal symptoms in and around the thoracic cage. They experienced symptom relief and increased body awareness following manual therapy interventions (MTI) and recommended that these methods be offered as complementary care to enhance quality of life.