Return to work in the context of everyday life 7-11 years after spinal cord injury - a follow-up study

Purpose: The aim of this follow-up study was to explore experiences of return to work in the context of everyday life among adults 7-11 years after spinal cord injury (SCI). Methods: This study used in-depth interviews and observations in a qualitative design with eight persons who had previously been interviewed in 2008. A narrative approach was used during data gathering and analysis. Results: Return to work was experienced as something constantly needing to be negotiated in the context of everyday life. Several years after SCI expectations for work and perceptions of possibilities for meaningful work had changed. Five main themes were identified through the analysis, (1) negotiating the possibilities of working, (2) hope for future work tempered with concern, (3) education as a possible path to employment, (4) paths toward return to work in light of unmet support, and (5) unpaid occupations grounded in interest and competence. Conclusions: Persons who have no higher education or lack viable employment to return to after SCI seem to be vulnerable in return to work. Early and timely interventions tailored to the person's interests and competencies, in which the rehabilitation team has a distinct coordinating role, are thus critical in return to work.