Staying physically active after spinal cord injury: a qualitative exploration of barriers and facilitators to exercise participation

BMC Public Health, 2009 · DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-9-168 · Published: June 1, 2009

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Public Health

Simple Explanation

This study explores the experiences of people with spinal cord injury (SCI) regarding exercise, looking at what makes it easier or harder for them to stay active. The researchers interviewed 26 people with SCI, some who identified as exercisers and some who did not, to understand their challenges and motivations. The study found that even though many people with SCI want to be active, they face obstacles like lack of access to facilities, equipment costs, and fear of injury.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

26 individuals with SCI (15 'exercisers' and 11 'non-exercisers')

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Both exercisers and non-exercisers recognized motivation as crucial for maintaining an active lifestyle, but non-exercisers often perceived a 'limited return on investment' from exercise.
2
Exercisers associated a wider range of specific health benefits with being active, which motivated them, while non-exercisers were often deterred by the perceived effort required.
3
Socio-environmental factors, such as accessible facilities, personal assistance, and affordability, significantly influenced the ability to exercise, with non-exercisers citing these as barriers.

Research Summary

This study investigates the barriers and facilitators to physical activity among individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). The research highlights the importance of both motivational and socio-environmental factors in determining physical activity levels in this population. The study concludes that addressing these barriers and promoting facilitating factors are crucial for enhancing physical activity and reducing secondary health conditions in people with SCI.

Practical Implications

Tailored interventions

Health professionals need to tailor their support and interventions to the individual needs and lifestyles of patients with SCI to improve long-term rehabilitative outcomes.

Remove barriers

Removal of socio-environmental barriers such as access to facilities and affordable equipment is vital for enhancing opportunities for physical activity.

Address 'blind-spots'

Closing education gaps among health care professionals may help abate obstacles that currently deny motivated individuals with SCI participation in healthy living activities.

Study Limitations

1
The qualitative nature of the study limits the generalizability of the findings to a larger population.
2
The selection of participants was based on a non-random sample.
3
The limited representation of ethnic minority groups is a limitation.

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