Background: The spinal cord injury is often a traumatic event in the person's life that affects many of the body's physical abilities. The group affected is relatively small in relation to other diseases/health related problems, but often affects younger people. In order for the nurse to be able to provide good person-centered care, it is important to understand what it can mean for a person to live with a spinal cord injury.

Aim: The aim of this study was to illuminate adults' experiences of living with spinal cord injury.

Method: This literature study is based on qualitative research. Eleven articles have been used for the result.

Results: From the result, two main themes and five sub-themes appeared. The first main theme was; To relate in a new way to the world with the subthemes A changed life situation and A changed body. The second main theme was; To reconstruct their identity with the sub-themes To be the same person as before the injury, To have a changed attitude, Take control and Being creative.

Conclusion: A spinal cord injury affects several parts of life. It challenges the person in many ways, both physical and psychological. With the right support and tools to meet the world again, life returns to the ordinary even if it takes time.