Perception of spinal cord injury patients about adaptive sports: A qualitative exploration

Abstract

Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI) frequently results in physical, mental and social disabilities. Adaptive sports have become recognized as an effective intervention for patients with spinal cord injuries to promote rehabilitation. Participation in adaptive sports enhances physical health, mental well-being, emotional resilience, motivation, and social integration. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of spinal cord injury patients about adaptive sports, focusing on their motivations, experienced benefits, barriers and reflections after participation. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the attitudes of individuals with spinal cord injuries towards adaptive sports by analyzing various aspects. The objective was to delineate the socio demographic attributes of the participants, ascertain the motivations that prompted their participation in adaptive sports, and elucidate the physical, psychological, and social benefits. The study aimed to identify the obstacles hindering their participation and to gather their perspectives and recommendations after engaging in various adaptive sports activities. Methodology: A qualitative exploratory study design was employed. In-depth, face-to-face interviews were done with 11 patients with spinal cord injury (9 males and 2 females) at the Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP) in Bangladesh. A thematic analysis was used to identify predominant patterns and themes arising from the participants' experiences and views. Results: Five major themes emerged from the analysis- Motivating factors for participation, perceived benefits of participation, barriers to participation, advices to other participants and opinions about the available adaptive sports facilities. Numerous coding was included under these themes. Overall, participants described adaptive sports as highly beneficial and transformative, despite facing minor challenges. Discussion: The findings underscore the significance of adaptive sports as a rehabilitative resource for individuals with spinal cord injury, facilitating physical and social recovery while augmenting psychological well-being. Participants exhibited support for the growth and formal integration of adaptive sports within a rehabilitation framework. The findings may serve as valuable references for healthcare providers, rehabilitation facilities and policymakers to improve the quality of treatment for spinal cord injury survivors. Keywords: Spinal cord injury, adaptive sport, rehabilitation, patient perception, qualitative research, thematic analysis