Work

Stakeholder experiences of rehabilitation for adults with complex fractures following traumatic injury: a qualitative interview study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: PURPOSE: To explore stakeholder experiences of rehabilitation following complex fractures and identify key components considered important for recovery. METHODS: = 17). Data were analysed using inductive reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Four themes with related subthemes emerged: (1) personalisation-needs-led and holistic, meaningful to the person, and desire to see progress; (2) adjustment to reality-making sense of the situation, support system, and practical reality; (3) accessibility and delivery-skilled and flexible workforce, accessibility, and systems approach; and (4) professional support-guidance and active monitoring, navigating transitions, and supervised physical activity. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study to identify rehabilitation components valued by people with complex fractures. Participants considered it important for rehabilitation to be personalised and holistic, delivered by experienced and competent professionals, and focused on meaningful, person-specific activities. However, a perceived mismatch exists between what people want and what current services can provide. Future research should explore how to deliver accessible, personalised rehabilitation that supports long-term engagement while remaining feasible within existing resources.

Source: Disability and Rehabilitation

DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2026.2667133

Authors: Lucy Silvester, Shea Palmer, David McWilliams, Rebecca S. Kearney, Anna Higo, Gemma Pearce