Clinical and socio-demographic determinants of community reintegration in people with spinal cord injury in eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal province

South African Journal of Physiotherapy, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/sajp.v78i1.1631 · Published: May 27, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Public Health

Simple Explanation

This study explores factors influencing community reintegration for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal. It considers both clinical factors like muscle spasms and socio-demographic factors such as employment status. The research used a questionnaire and the Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNLI) to gather data from 41 participants. Statistical analysis was then used to identify factors significantly associated with community reintegration. The findings suggest that being male, having a salary, being employed after the injury, and not experiencing muscle spasms or pain are positively associated with better community reintegration for individuals with SCI.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

41 PWSCI

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional study

Key Findings

1
Male PWSCI showed higher RNLI scores compared to female PWSCI, indicating better community reintegration.
2
Participants who were employed or had a salary had significantly higher RNLI scores, suggesting a positive impact of economic activity on community reintegration.
3
The presence of muscle spasms and being female were identified as significant negative predictors of community reintegration in PWSCI.

Research Summary

This study investigated the clinical and socio-demographic determinants of community reintegration in people with spinal cord injury (PWSCI) in eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal province. The results showed that community reintegration may be influenced by socio-economic factors, with significant associations found between community participation and factors such as gender, employment status, and the presence of muscle spasms. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of addressing muscle spasms and providing support for women living with spinal cord injuries to enhance community reintegration.

Practical Implications

Targeted Interventions

Therapists should focus on community reintegration strategies specifically tailored for female PWSCI.

Vocational Rehabilitation

Prioritizing return-to-work programs for PWSCI as employment significantly improves community reintegration.

Spasm Management

Implement effective management strategies for muscle spasms to reduce their negative impact on community reintegration.

Study Limitations

1
The study utilized a convenient sample, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
2
The RNLI is a self-reported measure, and it is subject to recall bias.
3
The cross-sectional design limits the ability to determine causal relationships between the identified factors and community reintegration.

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