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Papers by Joyce Mothabeng

Research paper thumbnail of Exploring the Experience of Living with Pain after Spinal Cord Injury: A Qualitative Study

Behavioural neurology, Feb 2, 2024

Research paper thumbnail of Development of a pain self-management intervention framework for people with spinal cord injury

African Journal of Primary Health Care & Family Medicine, Oct 25, 2023

Research paper thumbnail of The impact of rehabilitation on the community life of stroke survivors in Accra, Ghana

South African Journal of Physiotherapy

Background: Return to pre-stroke life is of great importance to stroke survivors, their families ... more Background: Return to pre-stroke life is of great importance to stroke survivors, their families and communities as stroke affects their ability to perform activities of daily living. It is therefore important to understand the impact of stroke rehabilitation on the community life of stroke survivors in Ghana as there are limited data.Objectives: Our study aimed to explore and describe the views of stroke survivors on the impact of stroke rehabilitation on their community life.Method: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted among 15 stroke survivors recruited from three selected hospitals in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis and this gave rise to several themes.Results: The authors found that stroke left most of the survivors with functional limitations and they required various degrees of assistance to perform their activities of ...

Research paper thumbnail of Perceptions of health professionals on structure and process of stroke rehabilitation in Ghana

African Journal of Disability

Background: Ensuring quality in the structure and process of stroke rehabilitation helps to attai... more Background: Ensuring quality in the structure and process of stroke rehabilitation helps to attain a good outcome. However, knowledge on this is limited in resource-constrained settings such as Ghana.Objectives: This study aimed to explore healthcare professionals’ (HCPs) views and experiences of the structure and process of stroke rehabilitation in three selected hospitals in Ghana.Method: A qualitative study was carried out involving 26 HCPs directly involved in stroke rehabilitation from three selected hospitals in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana representing the different levels of healthcare. Interviews were conducted using an interview guide to understand participants’ views and experiences of the structure and process of stroke rehabilitation. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis.Results: HCPs reported limitations with the structure of stroke rehabilitation with regards to the availability of rehabilitation units, bed capacity, approach to care, avail...

Research paper thumbnail of Associations between health behaviour, secondary health conditions and quality of life in people with spinal cord injury

African Journal of Disability, 2019

Background: The development of secondary health conditions (SHCs) after spinal cord injury (SCI) ... more Background: The development of secondary health conditions (SHCs) after spinal cord injury (SCI) is common and can affect an individual’s emotional well-being, and his or her health-related quality of life (QOL). Little is known about relationships between performing health-benefiting behaviours and the presence (or absence) of SHCs and QOL, particularly in South Africa.Objectives: This research study was conducted in order to determine the associations between health behaviour, SHCs and QOL in people with SCI (PWSCI).Method: This cross-sectional study included 36 PWSCI discharged from a private rehabilitation facility in Pretoria, South Africa. The PWSCI completed questionnaires pertaining to lifestyle, independence, presence of SHCs, social support and QOL. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as correlation tests and chi-square test of independence (x2) using the SPSS v25. Moderate, moderately high and high correlations are reported (Pearson r ≥ 0....

Research paper thumbnail of Perceptions of health professionals on structure and process of stroke rehabilitation in Ghana

African Journal of Disability, Apr 3, 2023

This study aimed to explore healthcare professionals' (HCPs) views and experiences of the structu... more This study aimed to explore healthcare professionals' (HCPs) views and experiences of the structure and process of stroke rehabilitation in three selected hospitals in Ghana. Method: A qualitative study was carried out involving 26 HCPs directly involved in stroke rehabilitation from three selected hospitals in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana representing the different levels of healthcare. Interviews were conducted using an interview guide to understand participants' views and experiences of the structure and process of stroke rehabilitation. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: HCPs reported limitations with the structure of stroke rehabilitation with regards to the availability of rehabilitation units, bed capacity, approach to care, availability of protocol, staff capacity development and payment systems. With respect to the process of rehabilitation, the primary and secondary level hospitals were found not to have computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning equipment. Participants also reported limitations with discharge planning, basis for discharge and post-discharge care across all three hospitals. Conclusion: This study found limitations in the current structure and process of stroke rehabilitation, which when given some considerations for improvement, can help improve the quality of care and thereby improve the outcome of stroke patients in Ghana. Contribution: This study provided data which helps to assess the quality of stroke rehabilitation in Ghana.

Research paper thumbnail of The Role of Environmental Factors on Health Conditions, General Health and Quality of Life in Persons with Spinal Cord Injuries in South Africa

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, May 3, 2023

This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY

Research paper thumbnail of The relationship between physical fitness and community participation in people with spinal cord injury

South African journal of physiotherapy, Feb 3, 2017

Background: People with spinal cord injury (PWSCI) who use wheelchairs for mobility tend to be ph... more Background: People with spinal cord injury (PWSCI) who use wheelchairs for mobility tend to be physically inactive because of their limited mobility. Poor endurance and exercise tolerance, associated with poor physical fitness, can make it challenging to meet the physical demands of activities such as manoeuvring a wheelchair over gravel roads. This may lead to poor community participation in activities PWSCI were involved in pre-morbidly. To date, no studies have been conducted in South Africa on what the relationship is between physical fitness and community participation in PWSCI. Aim: The purpose of this study was to establish the relationship between physical fitness and community participation in PWSCI. Methodology: An exploratory cross-sectional survey was conducted on PWSCI living in the Greater Tshwane Metropolitan City. Physical fitness was measured using the 6 minute push test (6MPT) and the Borg scale. Community participation was measured using the Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNLI). The data were analysed using the Spearman's Rank correlation at a 5% level of significance. Results: Moderate to poor associations were found between the 6MPT and the Borg scale with the RNLI (r = 0.637; p < 0.001 and r =-0.325; p = 0.013, respectively). These results indicate that the participants who were able to push further in 6 min and had better endurance were more satisfied with their perceived community participation. Conclusion: This study shows that there is a relationship between physical fitness and community participation in PWSCI. Information gained from this study lays the foundation for more studies in this area, and for possible improvement in rehabilitation practice.

Research paper thumbnail of The views of patients with spinal cord injuries on their rehabilitation experience

South African journal of physiotherapy, Feb 18, 2007

Background and Purpose: Spinal rehabilitation programs seek to enhance the residual functional ab... more Background and Purpose: Spinal rehabilitation programs seek to enhance the residual functional abilities of people who have an acquired disabling impairment because of SCI. Very little has been published on how patients experience rehabilitation, and what the implication of their experience is on rehabilitation outcomes. The aim of this pilot study was to explore the views of patients with SCI regarding their experience of rehabilitation while in hospital. Materials and Methods: A qualitative exploratory study using semi-structured interviews was employed. Twelve patients constituted the sample of convenience. Qualitative techniques were used to analyze the data. Results: The study revealed a variety of psycho-emotional issues related to the patients' experience of rehabilitation. Positive issues included being treated humanly, being told the truth about their condition early on, family involvement in rehabilitation and being allowed to contribute to decision making regarding their rehabilitation. Negative issues were mainly their lack of insight into their health condition. Conclusion: The study highlighted important psycho-emotional issues related to the patients' experience of rehabilitation. Rehabilitation personnel must consider these issues when working with patients with spinal cord injury, to ensure effective rehabilitation outcomes.

Research paper thumbnail of The effectiveness of a peer Mentorship program in health science education

Purpose of the study: In 2009, a formal peer mentorship program was introduced by the physiothera... more Purpose of the study: In 2009, a formal peer mentorship program was introduced by the physiotherapy department into the school of Health care sciences (HCS) at the University of Pretoria (UP). Understanding the factors that contribute to high-quality mentoring relationships is critical for the development of sustainable and effective student support programs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mentors’ perceptions of mentor-mentee relationship. Methodology : A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with mentors from the school of HCS at UP.The mentors’ perceptions were assessed using the Match Characteristics Questionnaire (MCQ). The total MCQ score was calculated and converted to a percentage, a score that ranged between 0-45% indicated that mentor perceived the relationship as being poor, 46-69% was fair and 70-100% was good. Data were captured onto the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS 17) and analyzed using descriptive and correlation statistics. Results: Seventy three mentors (out of a total of 140) participated in the pilot study. The mean MCQ scores of the participants was 54.3 ( sd 7.29), which fell in the fair category. No significant differences in total MCQ scores were found in relation to mentors’ demographic characteristics. Age, however did have a small, but statistically significant influence on the mentor’s feelings regarding the mentor-mentee relationship. Discussion and conclusion: The perception of only a fair mentor-mentee relationship suggests that measures need to be put in place to improve the mentoring relationship. The study findings should however be interpreted with caution as the sample size was small and skewed. To get a full picture of the mentor-mentee relationship, mentees’ perceptions were also need to be investigated. Further studies with larger samples, possibly longitudinal, are therefore recommended. Keywords : Mentorship, mentor-mentee relationship, perceptions, MCQ,

Research paper thumbnail of Employment Following Spinal Cord Injury

Background: Employment is considered one of the most meaningful measures of successful rehabilita... more Background: Employment is considered one of the most meaningful measures of successful rehabilitation for people living with spinal cord injuries. The literature suggests that return to work and employment rates are low after spinal cord injury (SCI).However, very limited literature on the employment of people living with spinal cord injuries (PLWSCI) exist in less-industrialized and developing countries, making employment statistics for PLWSCI virtually non-existent in such countries, including South Africa. Purpose: To determine the factors related to the employment of people living with spinal cord injury (PLWSCI) in the Tshwane Metropolitan Area, Gauteng province, South Africa. Methods: Secondary analysis of socio-demographic data from a major cross sectional study investigating participation outcomes following spinal cord injury was conducted. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics; chi square tests of independence and ANOVA to identify the most significant correlates of employment. Results : Data from 160 participants were analysed. Out of the 160 participants, 91 (56.9%) were employed before the SCI, while only 41 (25.6 %) were employed at the time of the study. Employment was found to be significantly associated with residential area [c 2 (2) = 20.5, p < 0.001], previous employment [c 2 (2) = 4.3, p < 0.05], education level [c 2 (1) = 4.3, p < 0.05], and race [c 2 (2) = 4.3, P < 0.05]. Age and gender were not significantly associated with employment. Conclusion : Employment is an area in which people with SCI experience particular participation restrictions. This study found that the employment of PLWSCI was low (25.6%) and was influenced by a number of non-modifiable socio-demographic factors, which are not amenable to rehabilitation interventions. It is therefore important that the rehabilitation process prepares PLWSCI for employment and/or return to work. Rehabilitation professionals also need to advocate as much as possible and lobby other stakeholders for the (re)employment of PLWSCI, in order to enhance community participation and quality of life. Keywords: Spinal cord injuries, rehabilitation, outcomes, employment

Research paper thumbnail of Determining the management of pain in people with spinal cord injury by physiotherapists in South Africa

South African journal of physiotherapy, Jul 27, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Community participation for people living with spinal cord injury in the Tshwane Metropolitan area

Research paper thumbnail of Undergraduate physiotherapy research training in south africa: the Medunsa experience

South African journal of physiotherapy, Feb 17, 2002

skills to the students, so that as qualified therapists they will have the skills to evaluate the... more skills to the students, so that as qualified therapists they will have the skills to evaluate their practice and become evidence based practitioners.

Research paper thumbnail of Feasibility of ballistic strength training to improve mobility of inpatients with traumatic brain injury

The New Zealand journal of physiotherapy, Aug 2, 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of ballistic strength training (BS... more The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of ballistic strength training (BST) to improve the mobility of individuals recovering from traumatic brain injury (TBI) in an inpatient rehabilitation centre. Participants had a maximum of eight usual physiotherapy sessions substituted with BST sessions. The feasibility of BST was assessed in terms of recruitment, attendance, adverse events (AEs), and participant acceptability of the intervention. The clinical aspects of feasibility were assessed by recording the ability of participants to complete the exercises and acquire skills. Secondary measures included the 10-metre walk test, the 6-minute walk test, and the Global Rating of Change scale. Fourteen of 22 eligible individuals with TBI in an inpatient rehabilitation centre consented to participate in the study, of whom two were excluded. No intervention-related AEs occurred. Participants attended 97% (71/73) of the total sessions. Participants positively accepted the intervention as rated on a visual analogue scale, M (SD) = 9.2 (0.9). All participants were able to complete the BST exercises. Participants significantly improved comfortable walking speed and walking capacity (p < 0.01). Participants perceived a meaningful change in walking ability. BST appears to be a promising rehabilitation method that may improve the walking outcomes of individuals with TBI in an inpatient rehabilitation setting. Larger-scale clinical trials are warranted.

Research paper thumbnail of Feasibility of ballistic strength training to improve mobility of inpatients with traumatic brain injury: A study protocol

The New Zealand journal of physiotherapy, May 10, 2023

Traumatic brain injury is a major cause of mortality and long-term disability, often resulting in... more Traumatic brain injury is a major cause of mortality and long-term disability, often resulting in limited mobility. Limited mobility is associated with poor community participation and reduced health-related quality of life. Mobility, particularly walking, requires rapid force generation, which can be improved using ballistic strength training. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of ballistic strength training for improving mobility in people recovering from traumatic brain injury in an inpatient rehabilitation setting. The feasibility study will use a quasi-experimental single group pre-test–post-test design. We will recruit inpatients with first-ever, moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury, less than 6 months post-injury. We plan to measure recruitment capability, attendance, the incidence of adverse events, acceptability of the intervention, and ability to perform exercises. Preliminary effects of the intervention will be measured as a change in self-selected walking speed, change in walking capacity, and participant perceived difference in walking ability. The data will be descriptively analysed. In this study protocol, we outline the rationale for implementing a feasibility study to test the feasibility of ballistic strength training for inpatients who have experienced traumatic brain injuries.

Research paper thumbnail of Associations between health behaviour, secondary health conditions and quality of life in people with spinal cord injury

African Journal of Disability, Jun 11, 2019

This research study was conducted in order to determine the associations between health behaviour... more This research study was conducted in order to determine the associations between health behaviour, SHCs and QOL in people with SCI (PWSCI). Method: This cross-sectional study included 36 PWSCI discharged from a private rehabilitation facility in Pretoria, South Africa. The PWSCI completed questionnaires pertaining to lifestyle, independence, presence of SHCs, social support and QOL. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as correlation tests and chi-square test of independence (x 2) using the SPSS v25. Moderate, moderately high and high correlations are reported (Pearson r ≥ 0.4). Results were significant if p < 0.05. Results: Participation in health-benefiting behaviour was associated with increased QOL (r = 0.457, p < 0.01) and increased social support from family and friends (r = 0.425, p < 0.01), which was associated with increased QOL (r = 0.671, p < 0.001). Not participating in specific neuromusculoskeletal health behaviours was found to be associated with the overall presence of SHCs (r =-0.426, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Participating in health-benefiting behaviour can reduce the development of SHCs and subsequently increase QOL in PWSCI. Health professionals must focus on minimising the development of SHCs by providing specific education on good healthbenefiting behaviour.

Research paper thumbnail of Determining the management of pain in people with spinal cord injury by physiotherapists in South Africa

South African journal of physiotherapy, Jul 27, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of The presence of pain in community-dwelling South African manual wheelchair users with spinal cord injury

South African journal of physiotherapy, Feb 22, 2022

To determine the presence of pain, the sociodemographic and injury profile of community-dwelling ... more To determine the presence of pain, the sociodemographic and injury profile of community-dwelling manual wheelchair users. Method: This quantitative correlational study used a sociodemographic and injury profile sheet and the Douleur Neuropathique 4 Questions (DN4) questionnaire to document demographic, SCI profiles as well as pain characteristics. Pain severity was determined using the Numeric Rating Scale. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) v27 at 0.05 level of significance. Results: The pain rate was 104; 85% of 122 participants and mainly in those with complete SCI (77.9%). Neuropathic pain was more common (76; 62.5%) and significantly associated (p < 0.05) with higher pain severity. Pain was mainly in one area of the body (59; 48.4%) but occurring in up to five areas. The most painful area had a mean severity of 6.7/10; was more common in the lower limbs below the injury level (48; 39.4%); and was burning in nature (40; 32.7%). Conclusions: Pain after SCI is as problematic in the South African context as it is globally. With the rising SCI prevalence in the country, understanding pain and its presentation is important for holistic management of a person with SCI. Clinical implications: In-depth assessment of pain should be conducted and appropriate management interventions for specific pain types be prescribed to effectively reduce pain.

Research paper thumbnail of The presence of pain in community-dwelling South African manual wheelchair users with spinal cord injury

South African journal of physiotherapy, Feb 22, 2022

To determine the presence of pain, the sociodemographic and injury profile of community-dwelling ... more To determine the presence of pain, the sociodemographic and injury profile of community-dwelling manual wheelchair users. Method: This quantitative correlational study used a sociodemographic and injury profile sheet and the Douleur Neuropathique 4 Questions (DN4) questionnaire to document demographic, SCI profiles as well as pain characteristics. Pain severity was determined using the Numeric Rating Scale. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) v27 at 0.05 level of significance. Results: The pain rate was 104; 85% of 122 participants and mainly in those with complete SCI (77.9%). Neuropathic pain was more common (76; 62.5%) and significantly associated (p < 0.05) with higher pain severity. Pain was mainly in one area of the body (59; 48.4%) but occurring in up to five areas. The most painful area had a mean severity of 6.7/10; was more common in the lower limbs below the injury level (48; 39.4%); and was burning in nature (40; 32.7%). Conclusions: Pain after SCI is as problematic in the South African context as it is globally. With the rising SCI prevalence in the country, understanding pain and its presentation is important for holistic management of a person with SCI. Clinical implications: In-depth assessment of pain should be conducted and appropriate management interventions for specific pain types be prescribed to effectively reduce pain.

Research paper thumbnail of Exploring the Experience of Living with Pain after Spinal Cord Injury: A Qualitative Study

Behavioural neurology, Feb 2, 2024

Research paper thumbnail of Development of a pain self-management intervention framework for people with spinal cord injury

African Journal of Primary Health Care & Family Medicine, Oct 25, 2023

Research paper thumbnail of The impact of rehabilitation on the community life of stroke survivors in Accra, Ghana

South African Journal of Physiotherapy

Background: Return to pre-stroke life is of great importance to stroke survivors, their families ... more Background: Return to pre-stroke life is of great importance to stroke survivors, their families and communities as stroke affects their ability to perform activities of daily living. It is therefore important to understand the impact of stroke rehabilitation on the community life of stroke survivors in Ghana as there are limited data.Objectives: Our study aimed to explore and describe the views of stroke survivors on the impact of stroke rehabilitation on their community life.Method: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted among 15 stroke survivors recruited from three selected hospitals in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis and this gave rise to several themes.Results: The authors found that stroke left most of the survivors with functional limitations and they required various degrees of assistance to perform their activities of ...

Research paper thumbnail of Perceptions of health professionals on structure and process of stroke rehabilitation in Ghana

African Journal of Disability

Background: Ensuring quality in the structure and process of stroke rehabilitation helps to attai... more Background: Ensuring quality in the structure and process of stroke rehabilitation helps to attain a good outcome. However, knowledge on this is limited in resource-constrained settings such as Ghana.Objectives: This study aimed to explore healthcare professionals’ (HCPs) views and experiences of the structure and process of stroke rehabilitation in three selected hospitals in Ghana.Method: A qualitative study was carried out involving 26 HCPs directly involved in stroke rehabilitation from three selected hospitals in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana representing the different levels of healthcare. Interviews were conducted using an interview guide to understand participants’ views and experiences of the structure and process of stroke rehabilitation. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis.Results: HCPs reported limitations with the structure of stroke rehabilitation with regards to the availability of rehabilitation units, bed capacity, approach to care, avail...

Research paper thumbnail of Associations between health behaviour, secondary health conditions and quality of life in people with spinal cord injury

African Journal of Disability, 2019

Background: The development of secondary health conditions (SHCs) after spinal cord injury (SCI) ... more Background: The development of secondary health conditions (SHCs) after spinal cord injury (SCI) is common and can affect an individual’s emotional well-being, and his or her health-related quality of life (QOL). Little is known about relationships between performing health-benefiting behaviours and the presence (or absence) of SHCs and QOL, particularly in South Africa.Objectives: This research study was conducted in order to determine the associations between health behaviour, SHCs and QOL in people with SCI (PWSCI).Method: This cross-sectional study included 36 PWSCI discharged from a private rehabilitation facility in Pretoria, South Africa. The PWSCI completed questionnaires pertaining to lifestyle, independence, presence of SHCs, social support and QOL. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as correlation tests and chi-square test of independence (x2) using the SPSS v25. Moderate, moderately high and high correlations are reported (Pearson r ≥ 0....

Research paper thumbnail of Perceptions of health professionals on structure and process of stroke rehabilitation in Ghana

African Journal of Disability, Apr 3, 2023

This study aimed to explore healthcare professionals' (HCPs) views and experiences of the structu... more This study aimed to explore healthcare professionals' (HCPs) views and experiences of the structure and process of stroke rehabilitation in three selected hospitals in Ghana. Method: A qualitative study was carried out involving 26 HCPs directly involved in stroke rehabilitation from three selected hospitals in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana representing the different levels of healthcare. Interviews were conducted using an interview guide to understand participants' views and experiences of the structure and process of stroke rehabilitation. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: HCPs reported limitations with the structure of stroke rehabilitation with regards to the availability of rehabilitation units, bed capacity, approach to care, availability of protocol, staff capacity development and payment systems. With respect to the process of rehabilitation, the primary and secondary level hospitals were found not to have computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning equipment. Participants also reported limitations with discharge planning, basis for discharge and post-discharge care across all three hospitals. Conclusion: This study found limitations in the current structure and process of stroke rehabilitation, which when given some considerations for improvement, can help improve the quality of care and thereby improve the outcome of stroke patients in Ghana. Contribution: This study provided data which helps to assess the quality of stroke rehabilitation in Ghana.

Research paper thumbnail of The Role of Environmental Factors on Health Conditions, General Health and Quality of Life in Persons with Spinal Cord Injuries in South Africa

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, May 3, 2023

This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY

Research paper thumbnail of The relationship between physical fitness and community participation in people with spinal cord injury

South African journal of physiotherapy, Feb 3, 2017

Background: People with spinal cord injury (PWSCI) who use wheelchairs for mobility tend to be ph... more Background: People with spinal cord injury (PWSCI) who use wheelchairs for mobility tend to be physically inactive because of their limited mobility. Poor endurance and exercise tolerance, associated with poor physical fitness, can make it challenging to meet the physical demands of activities such as manoeuvring a wheelchair over gravel roads. This may lead to poor community participation in activities PWSCI were involved in pre-morbidly. To date, no studies have been conducted in South Africa on what the relationship is between physical fitness and community participation in PWSCI. Aim: The purpose of this study was to establish the relationship between physical fitness and community participation in PWSCI. Methodology: An exploratory cross-sectional survey was conducted on PWSCI living in the Greater Tshwane Metropolitan City. Physical fitness was measured using the 6 minute push test (6MPT) and the Borg scale. Community participation was measured using the Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNLI). The data were analysed using the Spearman's Rank correlation at a 5% level of significance. Results: Moderate to poor associations were found between the 6MPT and the Borg scale with the RNLI (r = 0.637; p < 0.001 and r =-0.325; p = 0.013, respectively). These results indicate that the participants who were able to push further in 6 min and had better endurance were more satisfied with their perceived community participation. Conclusion: This study shows that there is a relationship between physical fitness and community participation in PWSCI. Information gained from this study lays the foundation for more studies in this area, and for possible improvement in rehabilitation practice.

Research paper thumbnail of The views of patients with spinal cord injuries on their rehabilitation experience

South African journal of physiotherapy, Feb 18, 2007

Background and Purpose: Spinal rehabilitation programs seek to enhance the residual functional ab... more Background and Purpose: Spinal rehabilitation programs seek to enhance the residual functional abilities of people who have an acquired disabling impairment because of SCI. Very little has been published on how patients experience rehabilitation, and what the implication of their experience is on rehabilitation outcomes. The aim of this pilot study was to explore the views of patients with SCI regarding their experience of rehabilitation while in hospital. Materials and Methods: A qualitative exploratory study using semi-structured interviews was employed. Twelve patients constituted the sample of convenience. Qualitative techniques were used to analyze the data. Results: The study revealed a variety of psycho-emotional issues related to the patients' experience of rehabilitation. Positive issues included being treated humanly, being told the truth about their condition early on, family involvement in rehabilitation and being allowed to contribute to decision making regarding their rehabilitation. Negative issues were mainly their lack of insight into their health condition. Conclusion: The study highlighted important psycho-emotional issues related to the patients' experience of rehabilitation. Rehabilitation personnel must consider these issues when working with patients with spinal cord injury, to ensure effective rehabilitation outcomes.

Research paper thumbnail of The effectiveness of a peer Mentorship program in health science education

Purpose of the study: In 2009, a formal peer mentorship program was introduced by the physiothera... more Purpose of the study: In 2009, a formal peer mentorship program was introduced by the physiotherapy department into the school of Health care sciences (HCS) at the University of Pretoria (UP). Understanding the factors that contribute to high-quality mentoring relationships is critical for the development of sustainable and effective student support programs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mentors’ perceptions of mentor-mentee relationship. Methodology : A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with mentors from the school of HCS at UP.The mentors’ perceptions were assessed using the Match Characteristics Questionnaire (MCQ). The total MCQ score was calculated and converted to a percentage, a score that ranged between 0-45% indicated that mentor perceived the relationship as being poor, 46-69% was fair and 70-100% was good. Data were captured onto the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS 17) and analyzed using descriptive and correlation statistics. Results: Seventy three mentors (out of a total of 140) participated in the pilot study. The mean MCQ scores of the participants was 54.3 ( sd 7.29), which fell in the fair category. No significant differences in total MCQ scores were found in relation to mentors’ demographic characteristics. Age, however did have a small, but statistically significant influence on the mentor’s feelings regarding the mentor-mentee relationship. Discussion and conclusion: The perception of only a fair mentor-mentee relationship suggests that measures need to be put in place to improve the mentoring relationship. The study findings should however be interpreted with caution as the sample size was small and skewed. To get a full picture of the mentor-mentee relationship, mentees’ perceptions were also need to be investigated. Further studies with larger samples, possibly longitudinal, are therefore recommended. Keywords : Mentorship, mentor-mentee relationship, perceptions, MCQ,

Research paper thumbnail of Employment Following Spinal Cord Injury

Background: Employment is considered one of the most meaningful measures of successful rehabilita... more Background: Employment is considered one of the most meaningful measures of successful rehabilitation for people living with spinal cord injuries. The literature suggests that return to work and employment rates are low after spinal cord injury (SCI).However, very limited literature on the employment of people living with spinal cord injuries (PLWSCI) exist in less-industrialized and developing countries, making employment statistics for PLWSCI virtually non-existent in such countries, including South Africa. Purpose: To determine the factors related to the employment of people living with spinal cord injury (PLWSCI) in the Tshwane Metropolitan Area, Gauteng province, South Africa. Methods: Secondary analysis of socio-demographic data from a major cross sectional study investigating participation outcomes following spinal cord injury was conducted. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics; chi square tests of independence and ANOVA to identify the most significant correlates of employment. Results : Data from 160 participants were analysed. Out of the 160 participants, 91 (56.9%) were employed before the SCI, while only 41 (25.6 %) were employed at the time of the study. Employment was found to be significantly associated with residential area [c 2 (2) = 20.5, p < 0.001], previous employment [c 2 (2) = 4.3, p < 0.05], education level [c 2 (1) = 4.3, p < 0.05], and race [c 2 (2) = 4.3, P < 0.05]. Age and gender were not significantly associated with employment. Conclusion : Employment is an area in which people with SCI experience particular participation restrictions. This study found that the employment of PLWSCI was low (25.6%) and was influenced by a number of non-modifiable socio-demographic factors, which are not amenable to rehabilitation interventions. It is therefore important that the rehabilitation process prepares PLWSCI for employment and/or return to work. Rehabilitation professionals also need to advocate as much as possible and lobby other stakeholders for the (re)employment of PLWSCI, in order to enhance community participation and quality of life. Keywords: Spinal cord injuries, rehabilitation, outcomes, employment

Research paper thumbnail of Determining the management of pain in people with spinal cord injury by physiotherapists in South Africa

South African journal of physiotherapy, Jul 27, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Community participation for people living with spinal cord injury in the Tshwane Metropolitan area

Research paper thumbnail of Undergraduate physiotherapy research training in south africa: the Medunsa experience

South African journal of physiotherapy, Feb 17, 2002

skills to the students, so that as qualified therapists they will have the skills to evaluate the... more skills to the students, so that as qualified therapists they will have the skills to evaluate their practice and become evidence based practitioners.

Research paper thumbnail of Feasibility of ballistic strength training to improve mobility of inpatients with traumatic brain injury

The New Zealand journal of physiotherapy, Aug 2, 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of ballistic strength training (BS... more The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of ballistic strength training (BST) to improve the mobility of individuals recovering from traumatic brain injury (TBI) in an inpatient rehabilitation centre. Participants had a maximum of eight usual physiotherapy sessions substituted with BST sessions. The feasibility of BST was assessed in terms of recruitment, attendance, adverse events (AEs), and participant acceptability of the intervention. The clinical aspects of feasibility were assessed by recording the ability of participants to complete the exercises and acquire skills. Secondary measures included the 10-metre walk test, the 6-minute walk test, and the Global Rating of Change scale. Fourteen of 22 eligible individuals with TBI in an inpatient rehabilitation centre consented to participate in the study, of whom two were excluded. No intervention-related AEs occurred. Participants attended 97% (71/73) of the total sessions. Participants positively accepted the intervention as rated on a visual analogue scale, M (SD) = 9.2 (0.9). All participants were able to complete the BST exercises. Participants significantly improved comfortable walking speed and walking capacity (p < 0.01). Participants perceived a meaningful change in walking ability. BST appears to be a promising rehabilitation method that may improve the walking outcomes of individuals with TBI in an inpatient rehabilitation setting. Larger-scale clinical trials are warranted.

Research paper thumbnail of Feasibility of ballistic strength training to improve mobility of inpatients with traumatic brain injury: A study protocol

The New Zealand journal of physiotherapy, May 10, 2023

Traumatic brain injury is a major cause of mortality and long-term disability, often resulting in... more Traumatic brain injury is a major cause of mortality and long-term disability, often resulting in limited mobility. Limited mobility is associated with poor community participation and reduced health-related quality of life. Mobility, particularly walking, requires rapid force generation, which can be improved using ballistic strength training. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of ballistic strength training for improving mobility in people recovering from traumatic brain injury in an inpatient rehabilitation setting. The feasibility study will use a quasi-experimental single group pre-test–post-test design. We will recruit inpatients with first-ever, moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury, less than 6 months post-injury. We plan to measure recruitment capability, attendance, the incidence of adverse events, acceptability of the intervention, and ability to perform exercises. Preliminary effects of the intervention will be measured as a change in self-selected walking speed, change in walking capacity, and participant perceived difference in walking ability. The data will be descriptively analysed. In this study protocol, we outline the rationale for implementing a feasibility study to test the feasibility of ballistic strength training for inpatients who have experienced traumatic brain injuries.

Research paper thumbnail of Associations between health behaviour, secondary health conditions and quality of life in people with spinal cord injury

African Journal of Disability, Jun 11, 2019

This research study was conducted in order to determine the associations between health behaviour... more This research study was conducted in order to determine the associations between health behaviour, SHCs and QOL in people with SCI (PWSCI). Method: This cross-sectional study included 36 PWSCI discharged from a private rehabilitation facility in Pretoria, South Africa. The PWSCI completed questionnaires pertaining to lifestyle, independence, presence of SHCs, social support and QOL. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as correlation tests and chi-square test of independence (x 2) using the SPSS v25. Moderate, moderately high and high correlations are reported (Pearson r ≥ 0.4). Results were significant if p < 0.05. Results: Participation in health-benefiting behaviour was associated with increased QOL (r = 0.457, p < 0.01) and increased social support from family and friends (r = 0.425, p < 0.01), which was associated with increased QOL (r = 0.671, p < 0.001). Not participating in specific neuromusculoskeletal health behaviours was found to be associated with the overall presence of SHCs (r =-0.426, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Participating in health-benefiting behaviour can reduce the development of SHCs and subsequently increase QOL in PWSCI. Health professionals must focus on minimising the development of SHCs by providing specific education on good healthbenefiting behaviour.

Research paper thumbnail of Determining the management of pain in people with spinal cord injury by physiotherapists in South Africa

South African journal of physiotherapy, Jul 27, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of The presence of pain in community-dwelling South African manual wheelchair users with spinal cord injury

South African journal of physiotherapy, Feb 22, 2022

To determine the presence of pain, the sociodemographic and injury profile of community-dwelling ... more To determine the presence of pain, the sociodemographic and injury profile of community-dwelling manual wheelchair users. Method: This quantitative correlational study used a sociodemographic and injury profile sheet and the Douleur Neuropathique 4 Questions (DN4) questionnaire to document demographic, SCI profiles as well as pain characteristics. Pain severity was determined using the Numeric Rating Scale. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) v27 at 0.05 level of significance. Results: The pain rate was 104; 85% of 122 participants and mainly in those with complete SCI (77.9%). Neuropathic pain was more common (76; 62.5%) and significantly associated (p < 0.05) with higher pain severity. Pain was mainly in one area of the body (59; 48.4%) but occurring in up to five areas. The most painful area had a mean severity of 6.7/10; was more common in the lower limbs below the injury level (48; 39.4%); and was burning in nature (40; 32.7%). Conclusions: Pain after SCI is as problematic in the South African context as it is globally. With the rising SCI prevalence in the country, understanding pain and its presentation is important for holistic management of a person with SCI. Clinical implications: In-depth assessment of pain should be conducted and appropriate management interventions for specific pain types be prescribed to effectively reduce pain.

Research paper thumbnail of The presence of pain in community-dwelling South African manual wheelchair users with spinal cord injury

South African journal of physiotherapy, Feb 22, 2022

To determine the presence of pain, the sociodemographic and injury profile of community-dwelling ... more To determine the presence of pain, the sociodemographic and injury profile of community-dwelling manual wheelchair users. Method: This quantitative correlational study used a sociodemographic and injury profile sheet and the Douleur Neuropathique 4 Questions (DN4) questionnaire to document demographic, SCI profiles as well as pain characteristics. Pain severity was determined using the Numeric Rating Scale. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) v27 at 0.05 level of significance. Results: The pain rate was 104; 85% of 122 participants and mainly in those with complete SCI (77.9%). Neuropathic pain was more common (76; 62.5%) and significantly associated (p < 0.05) with higher pain severity. Pain was mainly in one area of the body (59; 48.4%) but occurring in up to five areas. The most painful area had a mean severity of 6.7/10; was more common in the lower limbs below the injury level (48; 39.4%); and was burning in nature (40; 32.7%). Conclusions: Pain after SCI is as problematic in the South African context as it is globally. With the rising SCI prevalence in the country, understanding pain and its presentation is important for holistic management of a person with SCI. Clinical implications: In-depth assessment of pain should be conducted and appropriate management interventions for specific pain types be prescribed to effectively reduce pain.