Objective: Early sensory relearning (phase 1) after nerve repair using the dynamic capacity of the brain can improve the outcome, especially in the area of sensory function.However, no study has been conducted on patients’ own experiences of early sensory relearning. Materials and Methods: Thirty-one consecutive adult patients with at least 50% median and/or ulnar nerve repair at wrist level, which had completed phase 1 relearning a minimum 3 months ago, were included. The individuals’ experience of phase 1 rehabilitation was assessed using the Q-methodology approach combining both qualitative and quantitative methods. In this method, the patient sorts a number of statements about a phenomenon—in this case the early sensory relearning—into a cell grid, representing their experience. Fifty-six statements within 4 topics—(1) to understand the concept, (2) the conditions for operating training (person/environment/therapist), (3) to create the illusion of sensation, and (4) to complete the sensory training—were developed after pilot interviews, expert group discussion, and pilot testing. Factor analysis was used for data processing of the 31 sorted grids. Results: Three factors emerged that refers to (1) understanding and implementation of the training concept, (2) need for support and feedback during the training, and (3) training with others as a factor for success. Conclusions: With this method, we could identify factors describing patients’ experiences from early sensory relearning, and conclude that the specific factors that were identified should be included in future development of programs for person-centered early sensory relearning.
