Quality of life after spinal cord injury in Thai individuals: A mixed-methods study

Hong Kong Physiotherapy Journal, 2019 · DOI: 10.1142/S1013702519500045 · Published: October 12, 2018

Spinal Cord Injury Participation Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the quality of life (QoL) of Thai individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) using a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative data was collected using the SF-36v2 questionnaire, while qualitative data was gathered through semi-structured interviews. The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing QoL in Thai individuals with SCI, considering their unique socio-environmental-cultural aspects.

Study Duration

March to May 2016 (data collection)

Participants

101 Thai individuals with SCI (quantitative), 11 volunteers from the 101 (qualitative)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The qualitative data revealed that the most salient themes of HRQoL in individuals with SCI were "supporting factors toward QoL" and "driving force post injury".
2
The connection of both findings indicated that the higher scores in psycho-social variables and lower scores in physical domains of SF-36v2 in Thai persons with SCI may be due to unique Thai family traditions and community values.
3
Employment has been proven to be a factor that influences a better QoL score.

Research Summary

This study assessed health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in Thai individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) using a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design. The study found that QoL themes of Thai individuals with SCI were similar to those of other studies but had their own uniqueness in that they specifically describe Thai socio-environmental-cultural aspects. The results of this study may provide a basis for the improvement and implementation of programs for individuals with SCI in order to enhance their QoL.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Programs

The findings can inform the development of culturally sensitive rehabilitation programs that address the specific needs and challenges faced by Thai individuals with SCI.

Social Support

The importance of family and community support highlights the need for interventions that strengthen these social networks and promote social inclusion.

Policy and Legislation

The study underscores the need for policies that promote employment opportunities and improve accessibility to public facilities for people with disabilities in Thailand.

Study Limitations

1
The study participants were recruited from an urban area of Bangkok, limiting the generalizability of the findings to rural areas.
2
The cross-sectional design of the study does not allow for the examination of changes in QoL over time.
3
The use of SF-36v2 may pose a problem when utilized with persons who use a wheelchair because some SF-36v2 questions refer to walking and climbing stairs.

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