@article{ref1,
title="Perspectives on life following a traumatic spinal cord injury",
journal="Disability and health journal",
year="2021",
author="Hall, Allyson G. and Karabukayeva, Aizhan and Rainey, Carmen and Kelly, Reena J. and Patterson, Jonathan and Wade, Jamie and Feldman, Sue S.",
volume="ePub",
number="ePub",
pages="ePub-ePub",
abstract="BACKGROUND: Persons living with traumatic Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) face challenges when returning to their communities. The Spain Rehabilitation Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham is developing a continuum of care for SCI patients. The perspectives of individuals with SCI are critical to designing a person-centered approach to the continuum. <br><br>OBJECTIVE: This study sought to explore the lived experiences of individuals with SCI after their injury, as well as obtain the perspectives of therapists working with SCI patients. <br><br>METHODS: Ten persons ranging in age from 23 to 65 years old and living with SCI were recruited to participate in in-depth interviews. We utilized a grounded theory approach to develop descriptive codes and themes. <br><br>RESULTS: Our analysis highlighted domains that are critical to the lives of individuals with SCI including: planning for life after SCI, intrinsic motivation, environmental barriers, financial barriers, role of family, friends, and social networks, and relationships with medical providers. A key theme was the need for more information about how to manage their health condition, including the development of plans that are tailored to their specific needs. <br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with an SCI need access to a continuum of care that addresses both medical and social needs.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1936-6574",
doi="10.1016/j.dhjo.2021.101067",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.dhjo.2021.101067"
}