Spinal Cord, 2024 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41393-024-00962-1 · Published: February 13, 2024
This study explores how individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) and their caregivers define recovery and community reintegration during the first year after the injury. The research involved in-depth interviews at the initial rehabilitation stay, 6 months post-injury, and 12 months post-injury to understand their perspectives and satisfaction levels. The findings highlight that while both groups value motor function and independence, caregivers also emphasize the importance of positivity and emotional recovery in defining overall recovery.
Rehabilitation programs should be tailored to address the specific definitions of recovery and reintegration as defined by both persons with SCI and their support persons, particularly focusing on emotional and social aspects.
Healthcare providers should proactively address the challenges individuals face during the transition from rehabilitation to home, focusing on pain management, spasticity reduction, and emotional support.
Interventions should be designed to promote community engagement and social roles, recognizing that these are critical components of successful reintegration.