Inﬂuences on Participation in Life After Spinal Cord Injury: Qualitative Inquiry Reveals Interaction of Context and Moderators

Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences, 2022 · DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2022.898143 · Published: May 31, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study explores what affects people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) in their ability to participate in everyday life. It looks at previous qualitative studies to understand their experiences. The research found that external factors like physical environment and societal attitudes, personal factors like physical and psychological state, and time-related factors influence participation. Understanding these influences can help improve rehabilitation and support for people with SCI, enabling them to have a better quality of life and more involvement in their communities.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

352 adults with SCI

Evidence Level

Qualitative thematic synthesis

Key Findings

1
External contextual influences, such as physical environment and societal attitudes, significantly affect participation in life after SCI.
2
Personal physical and psychological states, including functional capabilities, health management, feelings, attitudes, sense of control, and self-perception, play a crucial role in participation outcomes.
3
Potential moderators like gaining knowledge about SCI, behavioral strategies, human and material resources, and effective communication can significantly influence participation outcomes.

Research Summary

This study synthesized qualitative research to understand influences on participation in life after spinal cord injury (SCI), revealing five analytical themes encompassing external context, personal physical and psychological states, moderators, and temporal dimensions. The findings emphasize the complex interplay of environmental, physical, psychological, and temporal factors affecting participation, highlighting the need for holistic rehabilitation approaches. The study suggests that rehabilitation settings should focus on understanding a person’s psychological state and leveraging moderators of participation through specific interventions to improve outcomes.

Practical Implications

Holistic Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation programs should consider the psychological and emotional well-being of individuals with SCI, not just their physical capabilities.

Environmental Adaptations

Efforts should be made to improve the accessibility of physical environments and address societal attitudes towards people with SCI.

Personalized Support

Interventions should be tailored to the individual's needs, considering their personal resources, skills, and goals.

Study Limitations

1
The context was narrowed to certain countries with highly developed economies and “western cultures” which may be questionable as a strategy for creating homogeneity.
2
This synthesis relies on data which is weighted toward the early months and years after SCI.
3
The decision to focus on quotes and paraphrases included in the ﬁnal manuscript of primary articles may be contentious.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury