Experiences of secondary health conditions amongst people with spinal cord injury in South Africa: A qualitative study

South African Journal of Physiotherapy, 2021 · DOI: 10.4102/sajp.v77i1.1530 · Published: April 6, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Participation Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study explores the experiences of secondary health conditions (SHCs) among individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) in South Africa. SHCs are health problems that arise as a result of living with a disability, such as SCI. Understanding these experiences can improve communication between patients and healthcare providers and inform prevention strategies. The research involved interviews with 17 individuals with SCI to understand the impact of SHCs on their lives. The most common SHC reported was pain. The study found that SHCs significantly affect various aspects of life, including physical function, social participation, mental health, and daily routines. The study emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to actively listen to patients' experiences and consider the biopsychosocial model of care, which focuses on the interconnectedness of biological, psychological, and social factors in patient care. This approach encourages patient participation in goal setting and decision-making.

Study Duration

August 2018 to July 2019

Participants

17 people with SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Pain was the most common secondary health condition experienced by participants with SCI.
2
SHCs have a significant impact on various aspects of life, including physical function, social participation, mental health, and daily routines.
3
The co-occurrence of SHCs was noted, such as osteoporotic bones and fractures, spasms and pain.

Research Summary

This study explored the experiences of secondary health conditions (SHCs) among people with spinal cord injury (SCI) in a public rehabilitation hospital in South Africa, revealing the profound impact of these conditions on their lives. The research highlighted that SHCs not only affect physical health but also significantly disrupt mental well-being, functional abilities, social participation, and daily routines of individuals with SCI. The study advocates for the implementation of patient-centered care approaches that emphasize active listening, open communication, and holistic management strategies to improve the overall health and well-being of people with SCI.

Practical Implications

Enhance Patient-Centered Care

Health professionals should actively listen to patients' experiences of illness and the impact on health and wellbeing to enhance patient-centered care.

Develop Prevention Strategies

Understanding the experiences of SHCs can help develop prevention strategies and appropriate management goals.

Promote Holistic Management

Interventions to manage pain need to be holistic, focusing on helping an individual live well in the presence of pain, including stress management, coping strategies, and exercise.

Study Limitations

1
Findings cannot be generalized to other contexts due to the qualitative approach.
2
Limited number of participants with cervical lesions and female patients with SCI.
3
Not specified

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