Biopsychosocial barriers affecting recovery after a minor transport-related injury: A qualitative study from Victoria

The aim of the study was to understand the recovery phenomena and to explore participants' perspectives on the biopsychosocial facilitators and barriers affecting their recovery after a minor transport injury.

A qualitative method was used involving semi-structured interviews with 23 participants who sustained a minor transport injury. Interviews and analysis were guided by the biopsychosocial model (BPS) of health. The outcomes were themes capturing biopsychosocial barriers to, and personal experiences of, recovery using a previously defined framework.

The themes indicate that recovery is a multifaceted phenomenon affected by comorbidities such as chronic pain, depression and anxiety. A range of subsequent complexities such as the inability to self-care and undertaking daily domestic duties, and incapacity to participate in recreational activities were major barriers to recovery. These barriers were found to be an on-going source of frustration, dissatisfaction and a perceived cause of depressive symptomatology in many participants. Most participants reported mixed feelings of the care received. Other common issues raised included a lack of understanding of the assessment time, regular follow-up, guidance and on-going support.

This study revealed that recovery after a minor transport-related injury was a challenging, complex, demanding and a long-term process for the individuals in this study. Findings from this limited cohort suggested that, for participants to return to their pre-accident health status, a more coordinated approach to information and care delivery may be required.