Facilitators and barriers in the rehabilitation process described by persons with spinal cord injury: a deductive-inductive analysis from the Finnish spinal cord injury study

Annals of Medicine, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/07853890.2024.2303398 · Published: September 26, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study explores the factors that help or hinder the rehabilitation of people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) in Finland. The researchers interviewed 45 individuals with SCI to understand their experiences during the rehabilitation process. The study identified various facilitators, such as good communication and teamwork, and barriers, such as delays in accessing treatment and lack of resources.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

45 persons with SCI

Evidence Level

Qualitative study

Key Findings

1
Good communication and interaction between stakeholders are crucial for the progress of rehabilitation.
2
There were more barriers than facilitators in applying for and accessing treatment or rehabilitation and during the implementation of rehabilitation.
3
Facilitators consisted of successful, realized, or planned treatments or rehabilitation events; clear goals; multidisciplinary teamwork; support and monitoring in various changing situations; and the rehabilitees’ own capabilities and activities, among other things.

Research Summary

The study aimed to identify factors related to the rehabilitation process and describe the factors that promoted and facilitated rehabilitation as well as challenges and possible barriers perceived by people with SCI. The analysis of the first phase of the rehabilitation process revealed two categories that promoted rehabilitation: “Successful treatment, rehabilitation, or both after a spinal cord injury” and “The treatment of a secondary health condition followed by a spinal cord injury was clear.” According to rehabilitees’ views, facilitators and barriers during the rehabilitation process consisted of different communication and interaction situations.

Practical Implications

Improved Communication

Enhance communication and interaction among all stakeholders (rehabilitees, professionals, family) throughout the rehabilitation process.

Address Barriers

Identify and mitigate barriers in accessing treatment and during the implementation of rehabilitation programs.

Person-Centered Approach

Promote a person-centered rehabilitation approach that considers the individual's goals and preferences.

Study Limitations

1
Difficult to encourage younger participants to join the study.
2
Selection process was not realized exactly as planned, mainly for this reason.
3
This study had a qualitative design, any generalization of the results should be carefully considered.

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