Effectiveness of Telerehabilitation in Persons With Spinal Cord Injury During the COVID-19 Pandemic (TELE-SCOPE): A Single-Center, Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial

Cureus, 2023 · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.41513 · Published: July 7, 2023

Simple Explanation

The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of telerehabilitation for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period when accessing in-person rehabilitation services was challenging. Participants with SCI were divided into two groups: one receiving biweekly telerehabilitation sessions and a control group continuing standard care. The study measured improvements in self-care, mobility, and anxiety related to the coronavirus. The results showed that telerehabilitation was safe, feasible, and effective in improving self-care and mobility among SCI patients during the pandemic. It also helped reduce anxiety related to the coronavirus in this population.

Study Duration

October 2022 to May 2023

Participants

30 participants with traumatic spinal cord injuries

Evidence Level

Level 1, Double-blind randomized controlled trial

Key Findings

1
The self-care and mobility domains of the SCIM III in the intervention group compared to the control group, as determined through a between-group analysis, showed statistically significant differences.
2
CAS also showed improvement in the intervention group compared to the control group.
3
Travel costs were completely eliminated in group A.

Research Summary

This study evaluated the effectiveness of telerehabilitation for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study found that telerehabilitation interventions were safe, feasible, and cost-effective for people with SCI during the pandemic, demonstrating improvements in self-care and mobility. The research highlights the potential of telemedicine and telerehabilitation to address healthcare challenges and improve functional outcomes, particularly in times of crisis.

Practical Implications

Improved Access to Care

Telerehabilitation can provide access to rehabilitation services for individuals with SCI who may have difficulty accessing in-person care due to geographical limitations, mobility issues, or other barriers.

Cost-Effectiveness

Telerehabilitation can reduce healthcare costs by eliminating the need for travel and reducing the length of hospital stays.

Reduced Anxiety

Telerehabilitation can reduce anxiety related to the coronavirus pandemic by providing patients with information, support, and access to care.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size.
2
Relatively short duration of the intervention.
3
Limited ability to detect statistically significant differences in certain domains of the SCIM III.

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