Relationship between functional independence and sociodemographic, clinical, and social integration factors in patients with spinal cord injury in Cali
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v79.118290Keywords:
Functional independence, social integration, spinal cord injuries, rehabilitation, spinal cord traumaAbstract
Introduction: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a highly disabling condition that affects mobility, independence, and social participation, in addition to causing physical, emotional, and economic repercussions. Functional independence is a central goal in rehabilitation, and its achievement varies among people with SCI and can influence their integration into the community.
Objective: Evaluate the sociodemographic, clinical, and participation factors related to functional independence in patients with TME treated at a hospital in Cali, Colombia.
Methodology: Analytical cross-sectional study conducted between July and September 2024 with patients with TME treated at a tertiary hospital. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were collected using questionnaires and medical records. Function-al independence was assessed using the SCIM-III scale, and social integration using the PART-O-17.
Results: The sample consisted of 41 patients, mostly young men from low-income backgrounds with complete spinal cord injuries. Functional independence was moderate (55.12) and was determined by the level and type of injury, with no association with sociodemographic factors. Social integration was low (30.82), with individual activities predominating.
Discussion: The findings are consistent with previous studies in showing moderate functional independence associated with the type and level of injury. However, social integration was not associated with functionality, suggesting the influence of sociocultural factors, such as stigma and limited social support.
Conclusions: Functional independence was moderate and associated with low and incomplete TME, unrelated to sociodemographic factors or social integration. Comprehensive rehabilitation approaches that include clinical and psychosocial factors are needed to strengthen community integration.
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