What promotes physical activity after spinal cord injury? An interview study from a patient perspective

Physical activity in people with traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is of importance not only for maintaining health but also for increasing the possibilities of living an independent life. Physical inactivity leads to poorer muscular and cardiovascular conditioning and sub-optimal levels of functioning. To help people with SCI to achieve optimum physical activity, it is important to understand what promotes the incorporation of regular physical activity into daily life. The aim of this study was thus to identify factors that may promote participation in physical activity among people with spinal cord injuries.

Qualitative multiple case studies. Sixteen participants with SCI were interviewed.

Four main themes of promoting factors could be identified. They were: using cognitive and behavioural strategies; finding supporting environmental solutions; exploring motivation post injury; and capturing new frames of reference.

By utilising the motivational power of role models, together with the other motivational factors identified in this study, such as identifying relevant individual motives post injury and capturing new frames of reference, the process towards physical active life may be facilitated.