"Your brain can't wait": perspectives of children and adolescents with acquired brain injury and their parents on physical rehabilitation during the subacute phase

PurposePhysical interventions during subacute rehabilitation have potential to improve functional recovery. This study explored the perspectives of children and adolescents with acquired brain injury (ABI) and their parents with respect to physical rehabilitation during the subacute phase.MethodsThirteen children and adolescents with ABI and their parents were included and interviewed using semi-structured interviews. Interview transcripts were analysed using inductive thematic analysis approach.ResultsSix themes were identified: 1) beliefs of physical rehabilitation, 2) content of physical rehabilitation, 3) tailored care, 4) impact of context, 5) communication and 6) transition. The importance of intensive physical practice was widely supported. The positive can-do mentality was emphasised to create an atmosphere of hope, meaning that every effort would be made to achieve maximum recovery. Intensive involvement of parents is considered essential during subacute rehabilitation including an open and mutual dialogue about the focus of rehabilitation, therapy goals and future participation in their own environment.ConclusionsOur findings highlight the need for an intensive rehabilitation approach, tailored to the individual's needs. The perspectives of children and adolescents and their parents in our study contribute to a better understanding of factors that are important for optimal recovery through physical rehabilitation during the subacute phase. Children with acquired brain injury and their parents indicate the potential and thus the importance of intensive physical practice to enhance optimal recovery.Involvement of parents and the potential of their continuous presence during subacute rehabilitation may have a positive impact on the effect of rehabilitation efforts.The positive can-do mentality of rehabilitation professionals creates an atmosphere of hope and is an important requisite to achieve maximum recovery.Open dialogue between clinicians and the family is warranted about the focus of interventions.