Trends in self-management research in spinal cord injury: A scoping review of study designs and findings
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Context
Self-management (SM) is essential for people living with a spinal cord injury (SCI) to maintain independence and well-being. While interventions have traditionally focused on medical management, research increasingly recognizes psychosocial and contextual factors. However, how SCI SM research has evolved and whether it aligns with patient-centered approaches remains unclear.
Objective
To analyze trends in SCI SM research regarding study designs, settings, populations, and topics, and to synthesize key findings to identify critical gaps.
Methods
A scoping review following Arksey and O’Malley’s framework was conducted. PubMed, Science Direct, CINAHL, Scopus, and Cochrane Library were searched for peer-reviewed studies that addressed SCI SM. Study characteristics and trends were quantitatively summarized, while findings were synthesized thematically.
Results
Fifty-two studies were included, mostly from the last six years. Research remains predominantly community-based, however there has been a rise in inpatient studies on SM skill-building. The past decade has seen a shift toward qualitative and mixed-methods research, alongside an expansion in topics beyond medical concerns to include emotional well-being. Thematic synthesis revealed three major dimensions shaping SCI SM: individual factors (knowledge, psychological well-being, SM integration ), interpersonal and societal influences (patient-provider relationships, societal contexts), and technological integration (enhancement of SM outcomes, usability, and feasibility).
Conclusions
This review shows increased and diversified research on SCI SM. Findings emphasize the importance of operationalizing knowledge through skill development, integrating SM into daily routines, and fostering effective communication between patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. Longitudinal studies from rehabilitation to community are needed to understand and monitor SM over time.
