ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE:: analyze social representations in the life trajectory of artisanal fishermen with spinal cord injury caused by diving on the north coast of Rio Grande do Norte. METHOD:: a descriptive, qualitative study was conducted with 31 fishermen between October 2013 and August 2014, using a semi-structured interview. A lexicographic analysis and descending hierarchical classification of texts were performed (with software ALCESTE), in the perspective of the social representations. RESULTS:: social representations of fishermen with spinal cord injury presented experiences with physical limitations and expectations regarding retirement, which appeared as a distant reality from the requirements in Brazilian labor laws. CONCLUSION:: measures are required for the promotion, prevention and rehabilitation of the health of fishermen with spinal cord injury, as well as safe and decent fishing conditions, with the commitment of health authorities.
