Bowel Control Strategies Used by Veterans With Long-Standing Spinal Cord Injuries

The aim of the study was to describe strategies used by veterans with spinal cord injury to achieve control over bowel function and fit their bowel programs into their lifestyles in the years following the initial injury.

Using a qualitative descriptive design, 18 outpatient veterans with spinal cord injuries were interviewed at a Veteran's Administration hospital. Recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed to determine major themes.

Fourteen of 18 participants had gained control over bowel function and led active lives. They emphasized the importance of positive attitudes, listening to their bodies, being physically active, taking charge, and using trial and error to find the best bowel control strategies. Findings also highlighted the value of peer support and the problem of military service connected back injury leading to spinal cord injury.

Participants provided practical advice for adapting strategies learned during rehabilitation for long-term bowel control after discharge home.