Experiences of people with non-traumatic spinal cord injuries returning home after inpatient rehabilitation.

This study adds to the knowledge regarding the lived experience of people with non-traumatic spinal cord injury transitioning from rehabilitation to home. Facilitators for successful rehabilitation discharge included ensuring community services contacted patients immediately after they left hospital, and providing support for carers. Health care workers can positively influence the adjustment process of people with NTSCI by facilitating re-engagement in meaningful roles.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThe transition home from inpatient rehabilitation after non-traumatic spinal cord injury (NTSCI) is facilitated by early discharge planning and follow-up from services after discharge.Establishing routines helped participants adjust to their new circumstances.The emotional and practical support of carers is vital for successful adjustment to living in the community with an NTSCI.Health care workers can positively influence the adjustment process of people with NTSCI by facilitating their re-engagement in meaningful roles.