How people with moderate-to-severe brain injury experience the long road back to physical activity

First published online 03 Feb 2025.

Why this study was done

People with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) often struggle to stay physically active. This can lead to worse health, more hospital visits, and a lower quality of life. The researchers wanted to understand how people with TBI experience physical activity and what helps, or hinders, their ability to stay active.

What the study did

The study involved 22 people with moderate-to-severe TBI. Through interviews and focus groups, participants shared their personal stories about trying to be physically active after their injury. The researchers analysed these stories to find common themes.

What the study found

The study identified four major themes:

1. What is my new normal?

• People had to redefine who they were after their injury.
• Some tried to return to familiar activities, while others avoided them because they reminded them of what they’d lost.
• Finding the right group or setting, where they felt accepted and supported, was crucial.

2. Invisible injuries, hidden needs

• Many effects of TBI (like fatigue, memory issues, or pain) are not visible to others.
• This made it hard for people to get the right support or feel understood.
• Some tried to “blend in” during activities, but this could backfire if they needed help and didn’t get it.

3. The long road back to physical activity

• Transitioning from rehab to community-based activity was tough.
• People often lacked guidance, support, and funding.
• Fatigue and transportation were major barriers.
• Physical activity felt like hard work, not fun — but it was still seen as essential for recovery.

4. Expanding Horizons

• Despite the challenges, physical activity helped people feel free, connected, and more like themselves.
• Activities in nature or with animals were especially meaningful.
• Being active helped reduce feelings of isolation and depression.

What this means

• Person-centred support should be provided early in rehab to help people transition to community-based activity.
• More inclusive, accessible, and enjoyable physical activity options should be offered.
• Community instructors should be trained to understand TBI.
• Insurance should cover long-term physical activity, not just short-term rehab.

People with moderate-to-severe TBI face many physical, emotional, and social challenges when trying to be active. But with the right support, physical activity can be a powerful tool for healing and reclaiming life.

This study was conducted by:

Dr. Abby Haynes, Dr. Liam Johnson, Mr. Rhys Ashpole, Mr. Anthony Mamo, Ms. Sakina Chagpar, Prof. Gavin Williams, Dr. Kelly Clanchy, Mr. Nick Waters, Ms. Gabby Vassallo, A.Prof. Adam Scheinberg, Prof. Catherine Sherrington, Prof. Sean Tweedy, Ms. Kerry West, A.Prof. Leanne Hassett.

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Disclaimer: The QDRN has utilised generative AI to refine the wording of this plain language summary. All content has been checked for accuracy, appropriate tone and clarity and approved by the author.