Opportunities for research to improve employment for people with spinal cord injuries

This paper reviews the literature pertaining to the employment of people who experience spinal cord injury (SCI) in the United States and recommending future research.

The literature was reviewed with search terms such as SCI, employment, working from home and telework using databases in EBSCO, including Academic Search Complete and the American Psychological Association’s databases.

Literature and findings on key factors related to employment illustrate the multiple dimensions of work environments, and health demands, that effect employment outcomes for people with SCI.

Employment is important for people with SCI and valued in society. The literature reviewed indicates that researchers understand the work demands for people with SCI and may help to identify suitable supports, training and job opportunities. There remains a need for research focus on understanding future employment demands, necessary work skills, differing work environments and methods for increasing and preserving employment.