Physical Exercise in Rehabilitation Nursing: Qualitative Analysis in the Portuguese Clinical Context

Purpose: To analyze how the principles of Buen Vivir , interpreted through Axel Honneth’s Theory of Recognition, are expressed in rehabilitation nursing practice through the use of physical exercise. Design: Qualitative, exploratory-descriptive study. Methods: The study was conducted in Portugal between January and April 2025 with 13 Rehabilitation Nurse Specialists, purposefully selected. Semistructured interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using Bardin’s content analysis technique, following a deductive approach, with double coding, investigator triangulation, and support from ATLAS.ti software. Results: The analysis identified quotes related to physical exercise and organized them into two categories: principles of Buen Vivir (subcategories: harmony with nature; solidarity and reciprocity; cultural pluralism and diversity; collective well-being) and pillars of the Theory of Recognition (subcategories: love; rights; and solidarity). Clinical Relevance to Rehabilitation Nursing Practice: Beyond the clinical dimension, physical exercise is perceived by Rehabilitation Nurse Specialists as a practice that promotes reconnection with nature, community solidarity, and active citizenship. This perspective expands the international evidence by emphasizing environmental, social, and cultural dimensions. Conclusions: Rehabilitation Nurse Specialists demonstrate a transformative model of care centered on dignity, autonomy, and solidarity. The findings highlight the potential of physical exercise as a means to foster Buen Vivir and Recognition.