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

Purpose:
To explore stakeholder experiences of rehabilitation following complex
fractures and identify key components considered important for recovery.
Methods:
Thirty-three individual interviews were conducted with adults who had lived experience of complex fractures (n = 16) and health professionals and commissioners (n = 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.