title: What Value Can Qualitative Research Add to Quantitative Research Design? An Example From an Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Trial Feasibility Study.
abstract: Using an example of qualitative research embedded in a non-surgical feasibility trial, we explore the benefits of including qualitative research in trial design and reflect on epistemological challenges. We interviewed 18 trial participants and used methods of Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. Our findings demonstrate that qualitative research can make a valuable contribution by allowing trial stakeholders to see things from alternative perspectives. Specifically, it can help to make specific recommendations for improved trial design, generate questions which contextualize findings, and also explore disease experience beyond the trial. To make the most out of qualitative research embedded in quantitative design it would be useful to (a) agree specific qualitative study aims that underpin research design, (b) understand the impact of differences in epistemological truth claims, (c) provide clear thematic interpretations for trial researchers to utilize, and (d) include qualitative findings that explore experience beyond the trial setting within the impact plan.
authors: 1 Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom.
authors: Francine
authors: F
authors: Toye
authors: 2 The Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, OX3 7HE, UK.
authors: Esther
authors: E
authors: Williamson
authors: 2 The Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, OX3 7HE, UK.
authors: Mark A
authors: MA
authors: Williams
authors: 2 The Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, OX3 7HE, UK.
authors: Jeremy
authors: J
authors: Fairbank
authors: 2 The Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, OX3 7HE, UK.
authors: Sarah E
authors: SE
authors: Lamb
keywords: Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis; UK; adolescents; methodology; musculoskeletal disorders; physical therapy; qualitative; research design; self-care; young adults; youth