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Abstract
Purpose
Activity-Based Therapy (ABT) targets recovery of function below the injury level in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). This qualitative study is the first to capture the perspectives of individuals with SCI on community ABT programs in Canada.
Methods
Ten participants (6 males, aged 23.0–65.0 years, 2.5–23.0 years post-SCI) were recruited using purposive sampling, and completed semi-structured interviews. Interview questions explored benefits and challenges, facilitators and barriers to access, and motivations for participating in ABT. Themes were identified using conventional content analysis and collaboratively analyzed using the DEPICT model.
Results
An overarching theme of ABT as a key part of participants’ evolving and lifelong recovery process emerged. Motivations for initiating ABT included dissatisfaction with early rehabilitation, and a desire to improve function and stay active. Participants perceived that ABT contributed to neurological recovery, physical and mental health benefits, independence, and hope. Factors contributing to recovery and factors limiting accessibility and participation in ABT were identified. Participants discussed advocating for ABT, and how ABT empowered self-management.
Conclusions
ABT was perceived to play a significant role in promoting ongoing recovery and well-being in individuals with SCI. Addressing limitations in awareness and availability of ABT may improve participation in ABT programs.
Implications for rehabilitation
Activity-Based Therapy (ABT) targets recovery of function and sensation below the level of injury in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI).
ABT plays a key role in the evolving and lifelong recovery process of individuals with SCI.
Participants reported that ABT has a positive impact on physical, functional, and psychosocial domains, leading to improved independence and quality of life.
Awareness and availability of ABT remain limited, highlighting a need to further explore and address factors limiting access to this therapy.
Acknowledgments
The authors would like to acknowledge Katherine Chan, MSc and Anita Kaiser, MSc for their assistance in this research. This research was completed in partial fulfillment of the requirements for an MScPT degree at the University of Toronto.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).