Priorities of desired functional recovery in Indian spinal cord injury patients

Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma, 2020 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcot.2019.08.001 · Published: January 1, 2020

Spinal Cord Injury Participation Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injuries can greatly reduce a person's quality of life by affecting various bodily functions. Even regaining some function can improve their quality of life, so it's important to know what functions are most important to these patients. A survey was conducted across different spinal injury rehabilitation centers in India. Patients were asked to rank seven functions in order of importance to improve their quality of life. The study found that quadriplegics ranked arm and hand function as their first priority. Paraplegics ranked return of walking movements as their first priority.

Study Duration

6 Months

Participants

112 SCI patients (92 males, 20 females)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Quadriplegics ranked regaining arm and hand function as their highest priority for improving their quality of life.
2
Paraplegics ranked the return of walking movements as their first priority.
3
Both paraplegics and quadriplegics ranked bladder/bowel control among their top three priorities.

Research Summary

This study aimed to understand the priorities of desired functional recovery among Indian SCI patients to improve their quality of life. The survey revealed that quadriplegics prioritize arm/hand function, while paraplegics prioritize walking. Bowel/bladder function is a high priority for both groups. Regaining sexual functions was the least priority rated for both quadriplegics and paraplegics.

Practical Implications

Research Focus

Research efforts should focus on the functions most valued by SCI patients, such as hand/arm function for quadriplegics and walking for paraplegics.

Patient-Centered Care

Involving SCI patients in decision-making regarding their care and rehabilitation is crucial for patient-centered outcomes.

Cultural Sensitivity

Cultural factors may influence patients' priorities, particularly regarding sensitive issues like sexual function, which should be addressed with consideration and care.

Study Limitations

1
The study may be limited by cultural differences affecting responses regarding sensitive topics like sexual function.
2
The priorities of patients may change over time, which isn't captured in this cross-sectional survey.
3
The study only included patients with complete injury, excluding those recovering after SCI.

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