Defining principles for physical activity interventions for persons with traumatic spinal cord injury in the Western Cape, South Africa
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Date
2024
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Publisher
University of the Western Cape
Abstract
A spinal cord injury (SCI) has a devastating impact on the physical, mental and social lives of individuals. Furthermore, this condition creates immense physical and psychological suffering that not only extends to the individual but their families as well. In 2024, it was estimated that approximately 15 million people are living with a SCI worldwide, with the Western Cape reporting one of the highest incidences globally. The morbidity and mortality associated with a SCI in lower resourced settings remain high, and thus SCIs are a public health concern. Due to the paralysis following injury, inactivity dominates, and individuals often experience challenges with daily activities and participation. This includes the engagement of physical activity (PA), which has many benefits for abled-bodied individuals as well as for persons with SCI (PwSCI). These include a reduction in secondary health complications, improvements in quality of life and overall health and functioning. According to research, PwSCI remain inactive with as much as 50% of the population not adhering to the recommended PA guidelines. The prescription of PA is included in the health care guidelines as part of the care package for PwSCIs in developed countries. However, there is limited evidence to suggest that interventions to improve PA has been implemented in developing settings.
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Keywords
Interventions, Intervention Mapping, Physical Activity, Recovery, Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury, Western Cape