The health and life priorities of individuals with spinal cord injury: A systematic review

J Neurotrauma, 2012 · DOI: 10.1089/neu.2011.2226 · Published: May 20, 2012

Spinal Cord Injury Participation Public Health

Simple Explanation

This study looks at what is most important to people living with spinal cord injuries (SCI). Understanding these priorities can help researchers and healthcare providers improve the quality of life for individuals with SCI. The review looked at 24 studies where people with SCI were asked about their health and what areas of their lives were most important to them. The review found that functional recovery, especially related to movement, bowel, bladder, and sexual function, were key priorities. In addition to health, relationships with family and friends were also identified as important. This information can help healthcare providers and researchers focus on the areas that matter most to individuals with SCI.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

5262 individuals with spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Level 1: Systematic Review

Key Findings

1
Functional recovery in motor function (arm/hand function for tetraplegia, mobility for paraplegia), bowel, bladder, and sexual function are consistent priorities.
2
Health and relationships with family/friends emerged as important life domains for individuals with SCI.
3
The relative priority of employment depended on the context in which the question was posed, ranking high when 'needs' were assessed but lower when 'importance' was assessed.

Research Summary

This systematic review examined studies that directly surveyed people with SCI to ascertain their health priorities and life domains of importance. While the questionnaires varied across the studies, a consistent set of priorities emerged. The information from this study, which identified the priorities and domains of importance by individuals with SCI, may be useful for informing healthcare and research agenda-setting activities.

Practical Implications

Research Focus

Research should prioritize functional recovery, particularly in motor, bowel, bladder, and sexual functions, aligning with patient-identified needs.

Healthcare Delivery

Healthcare should address not only physical health but also the importance of relationships and social support for individuals with SCI.

Employment Support

Provide targeted support and resources to address unmet needs related to employment for individuals with SCI.

Study Limitations

1
The studies utilized quantitative methods with predetermined domains, potentially limiting the scope of priorities identified.
2
The review excluded qualitative studies, which could provide richer, more in-depth understanding of individual priorities.
3
Consumer satisfaction or fulfillment in different life areas was not included.

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