This study is part of a wider project which aims to explore the views and perceptions of recovery from injury to later stages of recovery. This study aims to explore patients’ views and perceptions of recovery and what constitutes successful recovery at twelve months following injury.
A qualitative study using interpretative phenomenological analysis using semi-structured interviews was conducted between November 2021 and November 2023. Eligibility criteria: Adult >18 years, musculoskeletal injury from a traumatic event, and able to communicate in English. Ethical approval was gained (IRAS 287781/REC20/PR/0712). A purposive sample with a range of characteristics including age, gender, injury characteristics and severity was sought. Transcripts were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Strategies for trustworthiness included blind reviewing of the data, collaboration of themes and acknowledging potential preconceptions and beliefs encouraging reflexivity.
Twelve participants (mean age (SD) 50 (17), 66% male) completed the interview. Three main themes were identified: 1. Making sense of their individualised and ongoing recovery: making sense of the accident/injuries was ongoing, as well as reflection on their recovery journey so far. There was acceptance of reality as well as acknowledging that their injury was a life changing experience 2. Individualised influences which hinder/assist recovery: there was multiple individual strategies for success to recovery such as positivity and effort=reward, but also individual barriers to success such as financial barriers and lack of time. There was negative psychological impact to recovery including fear and anxiety but lessening conscious thought and planning around their injuries. 3. Looking to the future: recovery was acknowledged as an ongoing process whilst navigating uncertainty with an unclear future. Successful recovery was defined as getting back to ‘normal life’ and their identity was important as well as perceptions of others in relation to their accident/injuries.
At twelve months following injury there is an individualised and dynamic approach to recovery with less reliance for guidance from healthcare and others for their recovery. Successful recovery is about returning to their ‘normal life’, and recovery from injuries regardless injury type and severity goes beyond 12 months post injury. Future studies should focus on enhancing rehabilitation at later stages of recovery following injury in order to achieve patients’ goals of returning to normal life.
A greater understanding and lived experience of patients following musculoskeletal trauma has highlighted that at twelve months, recovery is still ongoing with some uncertainties about the future. This can, therefore, influence positive change in service provisions for trauma patients that rehabilitation should continue long-term. It allows personalised care when focusing to what is meaningful to the patient. A focus to longer term recovery could lead to economic benefits e.g. return to work.
Musculoskeletal Trauma
Qualitative
