Objective: To assess the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on persons with spinal cord injury (PwSCI).
Study design: Survey
Setting: Department of Neurological Rehabilitation in a tertiary care hospital located in southern India.
Method: Persons with spinal cord injury-PwSCI (traumatic or non-traumatic) who underwent in-patient rehabilitation between 1st February 2018 and 1st February 2020 were included in the study. Their clinical details were obtained from hospital records. A telephonic interview was conducted between 18th and 25th May 2020. A questionnaire was used to conduct the interview and responses were recorded. Thematic analysis of qualitative data was done.
Results: 35 PwSCI participated in the study. The mean (SD) age of participants was 31 (15) years, most participants were men (n=23). Out of 35 participants, 14 (40%) individuals were diagnosed with traumatic SCI. Most individuals were unmarried (n=19) and unemployed (n=21). Eighteen PwSCI did not have access to treatment and therapy during lockdown. Most participants (n=19) had basic knowledge about COVID-19, (n=12) PwSCI had concerns related to COVID-19 pandemic. Twelve (n=12) participants reported the pandemic is affecting their mental health. The areas of concern were varied and related to availability of health services including teleconsultation, mental health issues like anxiety and fear, access to preventive measures, and lack of employment.
Conclusions: COVID-19 pandemic has significant impact on the lives of PwSCI. All the stakeholders have to collaborate to minimize the impact of COVID pandemic on PwSCI.
