Staying active after rehab: Physical activity perspectives with a spinal cord injury beyond functional gains

PLOS ONE, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0265807 · Published: March 23, 2022

Simple Explanation

This study explores the perspectives of individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) regarding physical activity after completing rehabilitation. It seeks to understand the reasons behind the low rates of regular exercise in this population, despite its known benefits for functional independence, mental wellness, and social participation. The study involved group interviews with nine individuals living with SCI to identify the challenges and limitations they face in maintaining an active lifestyle. The findings aim to inform the development and delivery of more effective physical activity programs tailored to the specific needs of people with SCI. Key challenges identified include gaps in physical activity education post-rehabilitation, feelings of isolation during psychological adjustment to SCI, and limitations in community exercise settings. The COVID-19 pandemic also introduced additional environmental constraints.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

9 community-dwelling adults with chronic SCI

Evidence Level

Qualitative descriptive study

Key Findings

1
Participants reported that physical activity education during inpatient rehabilitation primarily focused on functional activities rather than promoting lifestyle physical activity.
2
Individuals with SCI often rely on self-education and peer networking to learn about lifetime physical activity strategies, but these sources may not adequately address their specific needs.
3
Social and emotional barriers, along with environmental and societal limitations, significantly hinder regular adherence to physical activity programs for individuals with SCI.

Research Summary

This qualitative study investigated the physical activity experiences and perspectives of individuals living with chronic SCI. The study identified significant challenges to adopting a physically active lifestyle post-rehabilitation, including psychological adjustment, gaps in physical activity education, and community exercise setting limitations. The study highlights the need for physical activity programs that address not only the physical aspects but also the psychological and social well-being of individuals with SCI. Recommendations include geographic proximity, low financial burden, knowledgeable instruction, reliable scheduling, and socialization within exercise programs. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated challenges by limiting access to gyms and social interactions, underscoring the importance of adaptable and accessible physical activity options for this population.

Practical Implications

Enhanced Rehabilitation Programs

Incorporate comprehensive physical activity education that extends beyond functional training to promote long-term lifestyle physical activity.

Community-Based Interventions

Develop and implement community exercise programs that address the specific needs and preferences of individuals with SCI, emphasizing accessibility, affordability, and social support.

Psychologically-Informed Care

Integrate psychological support and strategies into physical activity programs to address emotional barriers and promote resilience and self-efficacy.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size limits transferability of results.
2
Data was collected during the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have influenced participants' experiences and perspectives.
3
Study focused on community-dwelling adults, potentially excluding the perspectives of those in institutional settings.

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