Quality of life issues in individuals with spinal cord injury

Assessments of quality of life (QOL) are increasingly used in rehabilitation, embracing a number of conceptual approaches and measurement tools. Very few studies on QOL have addressed the specific needs of persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). Literature reviewed here describes 2 meta-analytical studies on SCI as well as several individual studies that focus on predictors and correlates of QOL applied to SCI. Results from a unique study on QOL after SCI using a qualitative methodology are also discussed. In addition, we describe the findings from another study, which used the Medical Outcomes Study 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey to assess QOL and relate it to the concept of being disabled.