[Changes and expectations experienced by individuals with spinal cord injury and their families]

This study was aimed at identifying the main changes resulting from the presence of an individual with spinal cord injury in family life, as well as the expectations regarding this condition. It was developed with 32 families in the city of Maringá, State of Paraná. From data analysis three categories emerged: relations with health services; family relations; and expectations regarding the treatment. Results suggest that the changes after a spine cord injury alter not only the individual's life, but also the family's routine and its internal relations. For that reason it is considered vital for families to get outside support for the difficulties they face so that they can ensure continuous assistance and contribute to a better life quality of their members with spinal cord injury, increasing their life expectancy and treatment prospects.