Negotiating identity and self-image: perceptions of falls in ambulatory individuals with spinal cord injury – a qualitative study

Clinical Rehabilitation, 2017 · DOI: 10.1177/0269215516648751 · Published: April 1, 2017

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study explores how people with incomplete spinal cord injuries (SCI) who can still walk perceive falls and the risk of falling. The research found that falls challenge their self-image as normal and healthy individuals. Participants often balance the need to avoid falls with their desire to maintain a normal lifestyle, sometimes taking calculated risks.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

15 individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Level IV, Qualitative Study

Key Findings

1
Falls interfere with the informants’ identities and self-images as normal, healthy, and well-functioning.
2
Ambulatory individuals with incomplete SCI considered falls to be a part of life.
3
Informants were aware of their increased fall risk and took precautions, but willingly exposed themselves to risky situations when important to self-identity.

Research Summary

The main finding and overarching theme is, “Falls challenge identity and self-image as normal”. Informants developed preventive strategies and justified concerns to protect their vulnerable bodies against falls and fall-related consequences, while also willing to take risks to emphasize a normal identity. Enhanced risk of falling and falls were considered part of life.

Practical Implications

Address Risk Awareness and Willingness

Follow-up care should consider the diverse perceptions of falls and the balance between risk awareness and the desire for normalcy.

Construct Relevant Fall Prevention Programs

Fall prevention programs should be designed to resonate with individuals who may resist seeing themselves as disabled.

Practice Falling Technique and Ability to Get Up

When necessary, training should focus on safe falling techniques and the ability to independently recover after a fall.

Study Limitations

1
The questionnaire answered before the interview could have added to the informants pre-understanding of the subject matter.
2
The informants covered a large age span with the majority being under the age of 65.
3
All informants had experienced falling.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury