Spinal Cord Research Help
AboutCategoriesLatest ResearchContact
Subscribe
Spinal Cord Research Help

Making Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Research Accessible to Everyone. Simplified summaries of the latest research, designed for patients, caregivers and anybody who's interested.

Quick Links

  • Home
  • About
  • Categories
  • Latest Research
  • Disclaimer

Contact

  • Contact Us
© 2025 Spinal Cord Research Help

All rights reserved.

  1. Home
  2. Research
  3. Spinal Cord Injury
  4. Translating a spinal cord injury self-management intervention for online and telehealth delivery: A community-engaged research approach

Translating a spinal cord injury self-management intervention for online and telehealth delivery: A community-engaged research approach

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2019 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2018.1518123 · Published: September 1, 2019

Spinal Cord InjuryPatient ExperienceTelehealth & Digital Health

Simple Explanation

This study aimed to create and test a way for people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) to manage their health using online tools and video calls with peer support. The researchers worked with the SCI community to design educational materials and used iPads, online platforms, and video conferencing to deliver the program. Participants liked using the iPad and online platform and found the video chats helpful, suggesting that this approach could be a good way to provide support and education to people with SCI.

Study Duration
1 Year
Participants
10 individuals with SCI
Evidence Level
Not specified

Key Findings

  • 1
    Participants were receptive and satisfied with the iPad and iTunes U platform and the video chat experience.
  • 2
    Statements by our participants demonstrated a clear preference for interactive and multimedia platforms to promote engagement with educational materials.
  • 3
    The hands-on evaluation process highlighted the need for consideration of connectivity for rural participants and assistive technology needs.

Research Summary

This study evaluated the use of tablet computers, online content management platform, and video conferencing for delivery of a peer-supported, spinal cord injury self-management intervention. The study found that participants were receptive and satisfied with the technology and video chat experience, demonstrating a preference for interactive and multimedia platforms. The evaluation highlighted the need to consider connectivity for rural participants and assistive technology needs to improve the accessibility of the intervention.

Practical Implications

Telehealth potential

Telehealth and online platforms offer a promising avenue for delivering self-management interventions to individuals with SCI, particularly those in rural areas or with mobility limitations.

Importance of user-centered design

Engaging individuals with SCI in the development process is crucial for creating relevant, accessible, and acceptable interventions.

Assistive Technology Integration

Future telehealth interventions should consider and address the assistive technology needs of participants with impaired upper extremity function.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Small sample size
  • 2
    Lack of representation of more recent SCI injuries
  • 3
    Potential alterations of established psychometrics

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury