Promoting factors and barriers to participation in working life for people with spinal cord injury

Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology, 2020 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12995-020-00288-7 · Published: December 8, 2020

Spinal Cord Injury Occupational Health Disability

Simple Explanation

The study investigates factors influencing labor market participation for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) in Germany. It identifies barriers and facilitators, highlighting the need for multidimensional support to improve employment rates and social integration. Education and pain management are emphasized as critical areas for intervention to enhance employment opportunities for people with SCI.

Study Duration

March until December 2017

Participants

1,479 persons with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) aged 18 years and older

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional explorative observational study

Key Findings

1
Higher education levels significantly correlate with increased employment rates among individuals with SCI.
2
Pain is a significant barrier to employment, with moderate to severe pain reducing the probability of employment by almost 50%.
3
Participation in vocational re-integration measures significantly increases the likelihood of employment for individuals with SCI.

Research Summary

This study examines the factors influencing labor market participation among individuals with SCI in Germany, utilizing data from the German Spinal Cord Injury Survey (GerSCI). The findings reveal that education level, pain management, and access to vocational re-integration programs are critical determinants of employment. The study highlights the need for comprehensive support systems and policy interventions to improve employment rates and social inclusion for individuals with SCI.

Practical Implications

Vocational Training Programs

Develop targeted vocational training programs to enhance skills and employment opportunities for individuals with SCI.

Pain Management Strategies

Implement comprehensive pain management strategies to reduce pain-related barriers to employment.

Accessible Workplace Environments

Promote the creation of accessible workplace environments to facilitate the integration of individuals with SCI into the labor market.

Study Limitations

1
The response rate of 32.6% is not very high compared to other surveys.
2
The questionnaire itself brings about possible selection bias because answering is a challenge for mental ability and motor activity.
3
Another limitation of the study was that only eight of a total of 27 specialised SCI centres in Germany participated.

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