Changes in functioning and health during the first 6-months of the COVID-19 pandemic among individuals with a spinal cord injury

PLoS ONE, 2024 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0299570 · Published: March 8, 2024

Spinal Cord Injury COVID-19 Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) during the first six months of the pandemic. It focused on how the pandemic and its associated restrictions affected their health and daily functioning. Researchers collected data from participants with SCI at three points in time (June, July, August 2020) using online surveys. The surveys measured mental health, resilience, social support, technology use, and participation in activities. The study found that while there were no statistically significant changes, there were notable trends indicating increased participation and decreased anxiety among individuals with SCI over the study period. The use of social networking also increased.

Study Duration

6 Months

Participants

21 individuals with spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Longitudinal survey design

Key Findings

1
Participation restrictions decreased over time, indicated by a large effect size (η2 = 0.20) on the Keele Assessment of Participation (KAP).
2
Anxiety levels decreased over time, shown by a medium effect size (η2 = 0.12) on the HADS anxiety subscale.
3
Social network usage fluctuated but generally increased, with a medium effect size (η2 = 0.12).

Research Summary

The study investigated changes in health and functioning among individuals with SCI during the first 6 months of the COVID-19 pandemic using a longitudinal survey design. Results indicated a large effect size for participation, which increased over time, and medium effect sizes for anxiety and social network usage, with anxiety decreasing and social networking usage increasing. The conclusion suggests that individuals with SCI remained relatively stable during the pandemic, with improvements in participation and anxiety, highlighting the importance of fostering connection and engagement.

Practical Implications

Promote Social Connection

Encourage and facilitate the use of social networking and other technologies to maintain social support for individuals with SCI.

Address Anxiety

Develop and implement strategies to mitigate anxiety-inducing factors related to the pandemic for individuals with SCI, such as providing clear and reliable information.

Encourage Participation

Support and promote adapted activities and opportunities for individuals with SCI to maintain or increase their participation in daily life despite ongoing restrictions.

Study Limitations

1
The longitudinal nature of the data prevents causal inferences from being made.
2
The limited sample size likely increases the risk of type II error when identifying statistical significance
3
Some changes may have been caused by seasonal climatic variations rather than pandemic related restrictions.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury