Secondary health conditions in persons with a spinal cord injury for at least 10 years: design of a comprehensive long-term cross-sectional study

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the prevalence of secondary health conditions (SHCs) (urinary tract and bowel problems, pressure ulcers, spasticity, musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain, sexual dysfunction, respiratory and cardiovascular disorders) in persons with long-term spinal cord injury (SCI), and to explore the impact of SHCs on fitness, active lifestyle, participation and well-being. Methods: A time since injury (TSI)-stratified cross-sectional study among 300 persons between 28- and 65-year-old with a SCI for at least 10 years. Strata of TSI are 10–19, 20–29, and 30 or more years. All eight Dutch rehabilitation centres with a SCI unit will participate. Participants will be invited for a 1-day visit to the rehabilitation centre for an aftercare check-up by the local SCI rehabilitation physician (neurological impairment, SHCs and management), physical tests by a trained research assistant (lung function, wheelchair skills, physical capacity), and they will be asked to complete a self-report questionnaire in advance. Results: Not applicable. Conclusion: This study will provide knowledge on the health status and functioning of persons aging with SCI living in the Netherlands. This knowledge will help us to develop predictive models for the occurrence of SHCs and to formulate guidelines to improve health care for persons with long-term SCI.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• Persons with long-term spinal cord injury may be susceptible to many types of secondary health conditions (i.e. pressure ulcers, urinary tract infections, pain and spasticity).

• Coordinated long-term health care is required for this population but this is currently not operational in all specialized rehabilitation centres in the Netherlands.

• This study aims to develop predictive models for the occurrence of secondary health conditions and to develop guidelines to improve long-term health care for persons living with a spinal cord injury in the Netherlands.

Keywords::

• Aging
• health
• long-term care
• spinal cord injuries

Declaration of Interest: This project is part of the Dutch ALLRISC research program and is supported financially by ZonMw Rehabilitation program and Fonds NutsOhra, grand no. 89000006.