Experiences of Introduction to and Participation in Quad Rugby: A Grounded Theory Approach.

People with spinal cord injuries (SCI) often report low levels of physical activity, leading to various health problems. Quad rugby, an adaptive sport, offers an opportunity for individuals with SCI to maintain physical activity levels. This study focused on understanding the experiences of individuals in the United States who learned about and participated in quad rugby after their SCI. Four key themes emerged through interviews with twelve participants from seven states: the benefits of quad rugby participation, enabling quad rugby participation, barriers to quad rugby participation, and motivation for continued participation in quad rugby. The findings emphasize the importance of introducing quad rugby early after SCI and highlight the physical, psychological, and social benefits of participation. Occupational therapy practitioners can play a crucial role in addressing the identified barriers through innovative approaches and advocacy efforts.