Psychosocial outcomes among youth with spinal cord injury by neurological impairment

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2015 · DOI: 10.1179/2045772313Y.0000000162 · Published: January 1, 2015

Spinal Cord Injury Mental Health Pediatrics

Simple Explanation

This study looks at how spinal cord injuries (SCI) affect the mental and social well-being of young people, considering different levels of injury severity. It aims to provide realistic expectations for youth with SCI, their families, and healthcare professionals. Researchers examined whether the level and severity of SCI impact participation in activities, quality of life (QOL), anxiety, and depression in youth with tetraplegia (affecting all four limbs), paraplegia (affecting the lower body), or incomplete injuries. The study found that the level of neurological impairment does impact how often youth participate in activities and their social quality of life, but it doesn't significantly affect their mental health outcomes like anxiety and depression.

Study Duration

March 2007 and December 2010

Participants

340 youth ages 5–18 with SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Youth with tetraplegia participated in fewer activities than those with paraplegia or incomplete injuries.
2
Youth with tetraplegia reported lower social quality of life compared to those with paraplegia.
3
Youth with incomplete injuries (AIS D) reported lower social quality of life than youth with paraplegia.

Research Summary

The study examined the relationship between neurological impairment and psychosocial outcomes in youth with SCI. Neurological impairment was significantly related to participation and quality of life, but not mental health outcomes. Youth with tetraplegia may need support in terms of participation and social integration, while youth with AIS D injuries may need support in terms of social integration.

Practical Implications

Targeted Interventions

Interventions should focus on supporting youth with tetraplegia in increasing their participation in activities.

Social Integration Programs

Programs are needed to improve social integration for youth with tetraplegia and AIS D injuries.

Further Research

Additional research is needed to understand the factors influencing quality of life and mental health in youth with SCI, particularly those with AIS D injuries.

Study Limitations

1
The study sample may not be representative of all youth with SCI due to the single hospital system.
2
Youth with cognitive limitations were excluded, limiting the generalizability of the results.
3
The effect sizes reported in the study were relatively small.

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