Professionals’ knowledge, skills and confidence on using the best practices for spinal cord injury physical activity counseling in Canada and the Netherlands

This study investigates how well Canadian and Dutch professionals know, can do, and feel confident in using the recommended methods for advising people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) about physical activity (PA). The study found that professionals in both countries generally have good knowledge, skills, and confidence in using these best practices, especially regarding how to have conversations and what to discuss during them. The findings suggest that ongoing efforts to promote PA for people with SCI in both countries may have contributed to the high skill levels. The results will be used to create training programs to improve SCI PA counseling further.

• 1
  Canadian and Dutch respondents scored generally high on their knowledge, skills and confidence levels for using the SCI PA counseling best practices.
• 2
  Dutch respondents scored themselves generally higher compared to Canadians regarding confidence levels on how to have a PA conversation, focusing on building rapport, using a client-centered approach and tailoring the support.
• 3
  A significant number of respondents reported barriers to improving their knowledge and skills, with lack of time and reimbursement being prominent issues, especially in Canada.