Walking-related outcomes for individuals with traumatic and non-traumatic spinal cord injury inform physical therapy practice

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2012 · DOI: 10.1179/2045772312Y.0000000038 · Published: September 1, 2012

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study compares walking outcomes between individuals with traumatic spinal cord injuries (TSCI) and non-traumatic spinal cord injuries (NTSCI) undergoing inpatient rehabilitation. The researchers aimed to identify differences in patient characteristics, length of stay, and walking-related functional outcomes between these groups, and between those who walked versus those who did not at discharge. The Spinal Cord Independence Measure version III (SCIM-III) was used to assess walking ability, defining 'walkers' as those with a mobility indoors (MI) score of 3 or higher at discharge.

Study Duration

2007–2009

Participants

Adults with NTSCI (n = 31) or TSCI (n = 59)

Evidence Level

Prospective observational study

Key Findings

1
Walking outcomes were comparable between individuals with NTSCI and TSCI admitted for specialized SCI rehabilitation.
2
The proportion of individuals who achieved 'walker' status (SCIM-III mobility indoors score ≥3 at rehab discharge) did not differ significantly between the NTSCI and TSCI groups.
3
Lower-extremity motor scores (LEMS) at rehab admission was most strongly correlated with walking status at discharge (SCIM-III MI).

Research Summary

This study compared walking outcomes of individuals with traumatic (TSCI) and non-traumatic (NTSCI) spinal cord injuries during inpatient rehabilitation. The findings indicated similar walking outcomes between the two groups, suggesting the importance of inpatient rehabilitation for both NTSCI and TSCI patients. Lower extremity motor scores at admission were found to be a strong predictor of walking ability at discharge, emphasizing the importance of early assessment of motor function.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Focus

Emphasize walking ability in rehabilitation programs for both NTSCI and TSCI patients.

Assessment Importance

Routinely use SCIM-III mobility items for assessment of walking outcomes during inpatient rehabilitation.

Prognostic Factors

Consider initial LEMS as a key predictor of walking ability at discharge.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size
2
Single rehabilitation facility
3
Lack of comparison of rehabilitation service types and intensity

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury