Exploring the patient’s recovery journey and information needs following a shoulder fracture: A qualitative interview study.

Pauline May, Gillian Yeowell, Chris Littlewood
Purpose:

The purpose of this qualitative interview study was to explore the experiences and information needs at different time points after a shoulder fracture and how views on recovery change over time.  

Methods:

This longitudinal telephone interview study used a semi-structured approach based on a pre-planned interview guide. Recruitment was from June to November 2023. Participants were interviewed approximately two months and five to six months after their injury. Qualitative interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.  

Results:

14 participants were recruited (age range 44-80 years; three male). The themes identified were dependence, vulnerability, information needs, and recovery. Participants reported a loss of function and identity which resulted in dependence. Feelings of vulnerability were still present for most participants at six months post-injury. Information needs changed over time, with information about the extent of the injury and practical advice needed first, but later participants emphasized information about reassurance and recovery. Recovery meant regaining function and independence, and returning to meaningful activities, which was also not fully achieved for most participants by six months.  

Conclusion(s):

This study is the first to explore the information needs and experiences of people who have sustained a shoulder fracture along the timeline of recovery. The path from injury to recovery following a shoulder fracture is multi-dimensional, including loss of function and independence, vulnerability, change in identity and isolation, all of which are important to the person who sustained the injury. It is important to ensure appropriate communication and information provision to enable people to have the knowledge and control to be active participants in their recovery.

Implications:

Clinicians should be aware of the full impact of shoulder fractures to effectively guide patients to a full recovery, including overcoming feelings of vulnerability and regaining their sense of identity. Adopting a person-centred care approach, considering the changing priorities and information needs of patients throughout their recovery journey may lead to improved patient care.  

Funding acknowledgements:
Pauline May, Pre-Doctoral Clinical and Practitioner Fellow, NIHR 302700, funded by Health Education England (HEE)/NIHR for this research project.
Keywords:
Proximal humerus fracture
Recovery
Qualitative interview
Primary topic:
Musculoskeletal: upper limb
Did this work require ethics approval?:
Yes
Name the institution and ethics committee that approved your work:
Proportionate Review Sub-committee of the East Midlands - Nottingham 1 Research Ethics Committee 05 May 2023.
Provide the ethics approval number:
REC reference: 23/EM/0115
Has any of this material been/due to be published or presented at another national or international conference prior to the World Physiotherapy Congress 2025?:
Yes

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