Comparison of disability and quality of life between patients with pediatric and adult onset paraplegia

This study compares the disability and quality of life between individuals who experienced spinal cord injuries (SCIs) in childhood and those who experienced them as adults. The research examines factors affecting disability and quality of life, and how these differ based on the age of injury onset. The study found that while overall disability levels were similar, adults who experienced SCIs showed better adaptation to their environment compared to those who experienced them in childhood.

• 1
  There was no significant difference in disability levels (CHART scores) or depression (BDI scores) between the two groups.
• 2
  Adult-onset SCI patients reported significantly higher scores in the environmental domain of the WHOQOL-Bref compared to pediatric-onset SCI patients.
• 3
  Living arrangements differed significantly, with pediatric-onset patients more likely to live with parents and siblings, while adult-onset patients were more likely to live with spouses and children.