Association of Spasticity and Life Satisfaction after Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal Cord, 2011 · DOI: 10.1038/sc.2011.49 · Published: September 1, 2011

Spinal Cord Injury Participation Neurology

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the relationship between spasticity and life satisfaction in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). It examines how different aspects of spasticity, such as its impact on daily activities and perceived positive effects, correlate with various measures of life satisfaction and overall quality of life. The research involved a secondary analysis of existing data from a large sample of adults with traumatic SCI. Participants completed surveys assessing spasticity levels and satisfaction with different life domains, including home life, vocational activities, and overall well-being. The findings suggest that spasticity, particularly when it interferes with daily activities or is perceived as severe, is associated with lower life satisfaction and quality of life after SCI. These results highlight the importance of considering spasticity management in rehabilitation and treatment plans to improve individuals' overall well-being.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

1,549 adults with traumatic spinal cord injuries

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional survey

Key Findings

1
Three aspects of spasticity (Daily Activities, Positive Impact, and spasticity at its worst) all were negatively correlated with Home Life Satisfaction, Global Satisfaction, and Overall Quality of Life.
2
Only the Daily Activities scale and the spasticity at its worst rating had a significant negative correlation with Vocational Satisfaction.
3
The Positive Impact scale was actually negatively correlated with most subjective outcomes suggests spasticity presents significant barriers to quality of life.

Research Summary

This study examined the relationship between spasticity and life satisfaction in individuals with SCI, finding that spasticity indicators were consistently negatively correlated with life satisfaction and quality of life, even after controlling for demographic and injury variables. The research revealed that the negative impact of spasticity on daily activities and the severity of spasticity were associated with lower vocational satisfaction. Also, contrary to what was hypothesized, the ‘Positive Impact’ scale was also negatively correlated with most subjective outcomes. The authors emphasize the need to consider spasticity management in rehabilitation programs to maximize life satisfaction and overall quality of life for individuals with SCI, potentially including psychological interventions alongside medication and other treatments.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Programs

Rehabilitation programs should consider the negative correlation between spasticity and life satisfaction when working to maximize life satisfaction and quality of life.

Psychological Considerations

The level of an individual’s spasticity also needs to be considered when treating the psychological aspects of dealing with SCI.

Treatment of Spasticity

Information on the impact of specific treatments for spasticity on quality of life could be used in the tailoring of treatment plans for persons with spasticity.

Study Limitations

1
The measure of spasticity is subjective and depends on each individual’s perception of their situations.
2
The data collected were cross-sectional and correlational, so causation in the relationships cannot be assumed.
3
The strength of the relationship between spasticity indicators and life satisfaction/quality of life indicators was not that strong.

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