Indian Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Nov 2024)

Factors Influencing Adherence to Home-based Rehabilitation in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury: A Cross-sectional Study

  • Sushil Chugh,
  • Rinku Roshan,
  • R Jagatheeswari,
  • Dhananjay Alagundagi

DOI
https://doi.org/10.4103/ijpmr.ijpmr_34_24
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 34, no. 3
pp. 223 – 227

Abstract

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Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is one of the most disabling conditions and requires comprehensive rehabilitation programmes to optimise functionality and enhance quality of life. Despite the crucial role of physical activity in preventing complications, adherence to rehabilitation programmes remains a critical yet underexplored area, especially in India, where access to specialised facilities is still limited. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to fill this gap by exploring the factors influencing adherence to home-based rehabilitation regimens among SCI patients. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 19 SCI patients who underwent rehabilitation were interviewed through a validated, semi-structured questionnaire. Patients who exercise for at least 30 min per session for a minimum of 3 days a week were considered adherent to therapy. Results: The mean age of the patients was 46.5 years; most participants were male, and 68% adhered to therapy. The main facilitators for patients were an easy understanding of the home programme and awareness of potential complications. Significant barriers to adherence were low mood/stress and inadequate family support. A significant association was observed between adherence to therapy and spinal cord independence measure scores. Patients with spasticity were found to be less adherent to therapy than patients without spasticity. Conclusion: Understanding the factors influencing adherence to home programme can lead to more effective interventions, ultimately improving long-term outcomes and quality of life for SCI patients. The positive correlations between adherence to home programmes and the patients’ overall functionality highlight the need for tailored home programmes and good adherence rates in places with limited resources and less awareness about rehabilitation services.

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