New resources taking shape to manage pain, build return to work confidence after spinal cord injury

November 10, 2026
Picture of five smiling people standing in a line with white border. Light green text in white box that reads “Aus-inSCI TRANSLATION PROJECT.” Both picture and text box appear on a light grey background.

The National Injury Insurance Scheme, Queensland (NIISQ)-funded Aus-InSCI Translation Project aims to translate research data from the Aus-InSCI survey into meaningful resources and activities that respond to the needs of people living with spinal cord injury (SCI). The research team has recently focused on resources that will help people manage pain and build confidence in returning to the workforce.

Hosted by The Hopkins Centre, the project is developing practical resources and approaches to address priorities identified by people living with SCI, bringing together lived experience, clinical expertise and research across four areas: pain, employment, bowel care and skin health.

Led by Professor Tim Geraghty, the Aus-InSCI Translation Project turns findings from the Aus-InSCI Community Survey into actionable tools and strategies. The survey, completed by 1,579 Australians between 2018 and 2019, is the first international initiative of its kind to capture the lived experiences of people with SCI. With ongoing, five-yearly data collection, the project continues to evolve, ensuring its resources remain relevant and impactful.

Supporting people to understand and manage pain

The ‘Supporting people to understand and manage pain’ initiative is developing resources to help people with SCI better understand their pain, explore management options and know how to seek support.

In partnership with Spinal Life Australia and the Metro South Pain Rehabilitation Centre, the initiative has held the first of three “Ask the Expert” sessions: Navigating pain after spinal cord injury – understanding your pain and how to ask for help.

The session recording and a series of short videos drawn from the discussion are now available, allowing people to watch the full conversation or explore individual topics. Further sessions for people with SCI and clinicians are planned over the coming weeks, with additional resources to follow.

Watch the recording and short videos

Building confidence and support for employment

The ‘Building confidence and support for employment’ initiative is addressing the challenges of returning to work after a SCI. A new collection of videos is being developed to showcase the diverse employment journeys of people with SCI. These videos aim to inspire confidence, provide practical advice, and help individuals explore their career options.

The project team is also inviting people with SCI to share their own employment experiences. Those interested in contributing can contact the team at: Aus-InSCI_TranslationProject@health.qld.gov.au.

Find out more

More resources will be released as the project progresses. Stay informed about the latest Aus-InSCI Translation Projectresources, activities and opportunities to get involved:

Last updated: November 2026