Article

Traumatic spinal cord injury is typically a devastating event, leading
to permanent physical disability. Despite the severity of the condition, many
persons with traumatic spinal cord injury manage to lead both active and
independent lives. The aim of this study was to investigate the experience of
health and wellbeing of persons living with a traumatic spinal cord injury for at
least 20 years. Design and methods: A qualitative design was used. Data was
analysed using a phenomenological-hermeneutical method. Rich narratives were
obtained from 14 persons with paraplegia due to traumatic spinal cord injury
sustained at least 20 years ago. Results: The key finding was that health and
wellbeing were attained when persons were able to perceive themselves as being
"normal" in everyday relationships and circumstances. The normalization process
involved learning to negotiate and/or prevent potentially embarrassing situations
by acting in a "parallel world", covertly "behind the scenes". Conclusion: The
subjective experience of wellbeing and health after traumatic spinal cord injury
depends upon the ability to prevent or resolve potentially embarrassing
situations without this being noticed by others. Performing this work "behind the
scenes", enables persons with traumatic spinal cord injury to interact smoothly
with others and thereby be perceived as normal, despite substantial disability.

Langue : ANGLAIS