Dilemmas of Korean Athletes With a Spinal Cord Injury to Participate in Sports: A Survey Based on the ICF Core Set for Spinal Cord Injury

Ann Rehabil Med, 2016 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.5535/arm.2016.40.5.893 · Published: October 1, 2016

Spinal Cord Injury Orthopedics Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores the challenges and supports experienced by Korean athletes with spinal cord injuries (SCI) in sports. It uses the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) to understand these experiences. Researchers used questionnaires covering body functions, body structures, activity and participation, and environmental factors to gather data from 62 participants. The study found that mobility issues, bladder and bowel functions, pain, lack of accessible facilities, and financial constraints were significant barriers. Support from peers, family, and friends were identified as important facilitators.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

62 community-dwelling SCI athletes

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Mobility related problems such as muscle and joint problems, bladder and bowel functions, pressure ulcers, and pain were frequently reported barriers in ‘Body functions’.
2
Mobility and self-care problems were the most frequently reported issues in ‘Activity and participation’.
3
Sports facilities, financial cost, transportation problems and lack of information were highly addressed barriers in ‘Environmental factors’.

Research Summary

This study investigated the barriers and facilitators to sports participation for Korean athletes with spinal cord injury (SCI) using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework. The results indicated that numerous barriers still exist, particularly in health care needs and environmental factors, hindering SCI survivors from participating in sports. The conclusion emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach to promote sports participation among individuals with SCI, addressing both individual health concerns and environmental limitations.

Practical Implications

Improve Healthcare Accessibility

Address unmet medical needs such as bladder functions, pain, spasticity, and pressure sores to enable sports participation.

Enhance Environmental Support

Improve sports facilities, transportation, and reduce financial burden to facilitate sports participation for individuals with SCI.

Promote Information Dissemination

Provide better information and support networks to encourage participation in sports activities.

Study Limitations

1
The study was conducted on SCI athletes in sports clubs, which may not generalize to all types of sports activity.
2
The sample size was small, and almost all subjects were paraplegics, limiting the applicability to all SCI patients.
3
The ICF was applied in a restricted way using a dichotomous scale instead of a five-step scale.

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