Introduction: Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) are known to be associated with intra- and extra-intestinal symptoms such as pelvic floor dysfunctions (PFD), fatigue, and arthopathies1. The extent to which these symptoms persist and their effects on patient quality of life (QOL) is largely unexplored within the context of physical rehabilitation(PT)1. Background: IBD subjects report incontinence, urgency, fatigue, and joint pain during active disease and technical remission1. These chronic issues interfere with physical function, activities of daily living (ADLs), work/school attendance, and overall quality of life (QOL)2. Aims: This pilot survey sought to elucidate IBD physician (MD) and patient perspectives of IBD-related physical mobility issues. The ten PT categories were selected based upon current IBD exercise and physiology literature1. Methods: This pilot utilized two companion PT surveys, one MD and one patient. Surveys were sent to California CCFA members who agreed to participate in research studies and all Chapter Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC) members across the nation. Results: All 24 (100%) patient respondents indicated IBD impacted general, work/school, and physical activities(Table 1). Of the 12 MD surveyed, 91.7% felt their patients were physically safe at discharge, 50% of patients agreed. Patients and MD agreed that fatigue was a top rehabilitation concern (Table 1). Outpatient PT was used by 37% of patients (Table 2). MDs reported 50%/47.7% had never sent a patient to out/inpatient PT. Conclusion: This pilot suggests IBD related issues such as fatigue and PFD impact patient mobility and QOL. MDs and patients may be disconnected on issues of mobility and PT, further investigation is required. 1. Bilski J, et al. Can exercise affect the course of IBD? Pharmacy Rep. 2016;68:827-36. 2. Brevinge, H, et al. Exercise capacity in patients undergoing proctocolectomy and small bowel resection for Crohn's disease. Br J Surg. 1995;82:1040-5.
