Learning to live with a hand nerve disorder: A constructed grounded theory

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Qualitative Health Research
• Patient-Reported Outcomes

Background:

• The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework emphasizes a broader health perspective, influencing outcome measurement in hand nerve disorders.
• Patient perspectives are increasingly recognized as vital for assessing outcomes in hand nerve disorder management and support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experiences of individuals with hand nerve disorders.
• To understand the impact of these disorders on body structure/function, activities, and participation.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing constructivist grounded theory.
• In-depth, one-to-one interviews with 14 participants with various hand nerve disorders.
• Optional use of participant photography to visually represent lived experiences.

Main Results:

• Hand nerve disorders are experienced within a broader narrative of adaptation.
• A sequential process of "struggling," "overcoming," and "accepting" was identified.
• Participants described "transforming" as a result of their adaptive journey.

Conclusions:

• An explanatory theory of the adaptive process following hand nerve disorders was developed.
• Findings may enhance future patient-therapist interactions and understanding of patient journeys.