THE ROLE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN FUNCTIONAL RECOVERY AND INDEPENDENCE OF PATIENTS AFTER CERVICAL SPINAL CORD INJURY: A COMPARATIVE STUDY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/health-2025.4.19Keywords:
spinal cord injury; early rehabilitation; functional status assessment; level of physical activity; activities of daily livingAbstract
The aim of the study is to conduct a comparative analysis of the functional status, level of physical activity, and independence in patients after cervical spinal cord injury. Materials and methods: Forty individuals with cervical spinal cord injury were enrolled in the study. The study group included men aged 20-50 years, 33.1 ± 7.5. A total of 20 (50%) participants were in the physically active group (AG) – individuals who exercised twice a week for 90 minutes a day (basketball) in wheelchairs. The physically inactive group (IG) consisted of 20 (50%) participants who did not participate in any sports activities. The functional status of patients was assessed using the Konstancin scale, and quality of life was assessed using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using the Shapiro-Wilk W-test and the Mann-Whitney U-test. Results. Statistically significant differences were found between physically active and inactive men in terms of their functional status. Physically active patients demonstrated a higher level of independence in performing basic self-care activities. The greatest difference was found in turning over (p < 0.001) and assuming a sitting position (p < 0.001). Individuals in the AH group had better results in all types of activities. The greatest differences were found in personal hygiene – brushing teeth (p = 0.001) and washing the upper body (p < 0.001). The overall level of autonomy was significantly higher in the physically active group compared to the physically inactive group (p < 0.001). Conclusions. Individuals who regularly engage in physical activity after spinal cord injury have higher levels of physical activity, greater independence, and a better quality of life.
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