Association of psychological variants with functional outcomes among people with spinal cord injury

Scientific Reports, 2021 · DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98808-w · Published: September 14, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Mental Health Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how psychological factors like fear, anxiety, and depression relate to physical abilities in people with spinal cord injuries (SCI). It found that these psychological issues are linked to lower physical performance. The study involved 30 SCI patients and used questionnaires to measure their psychological state and physical function. The results showed a strong link between higher levels of fear, anxiety, and depression and reduced physical performance. Females with SCI reported greater fear, anxiety, and depression and showed lower physical performance than males. Depression was found to be the strongest psychological factor impacting physical outcomes in individuals with SCI.

Study Duration

6 months

Participants

30 patients with traumatic SCI

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional observational study

Key Findings

1
Psychological variants, including fear, anxiety, and depression, were negatively correlated with functional outcomes among people with SCI.
2
Females with SCI exhibited significantly greater fear, anxiety, and depression and lower measures of function and physical performance than males with SCI.
3
Depression was found to be the strongest factor affecting functional outcomes most among people with SCI.

Research Summary

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between psychological factors and functional outcomes in individuals with SCI. The study found that higher levels of fear, anxiety, and depression were associated with lower levels of function and physical performance among individuals with SCI, particularly in females. Depression was identified as the most significant psychological factor impacting physical outcomes, suggesting that addressing depression is crucial for improving physical capacity in SCI patients.

Practical Implications

Targeted Psychological Interventions

Clinicians should target psychological variants, including depression, to maximize the potential of physical capacity and physical performance among individuals with SCI.

Gender-Specific Care

Healthcare providers should be aware of the higher prevalence of psychological distress and lower physical function in females with SCI and tailor interventions accordingly.

Integrated Rehabilitation Programs

Rehabilitation programs should integrate psychological support and specialized training to address the emotional and mental health needs of individuals with SCI.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size restricted the ability to generalize the findings.
2
The study addressed measures of function and physical performance only.
3
The self-report nature of the study restricted our ability to draw causal relationships and may have produced some response biases.

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