Gaps in recovery priorities between individuals with spinal cord injury and healthcare professionals

It is essential to align the perspectives of healthcare professionals on recovery priorities for the targeted population to promote health and well-being. This study aimed to identify the functional recovery priorities of individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) and to assess gaps in recovery priorities between individuals with SCI and healthcare professionals. A web-based survey was conducted with 103 individuals with SCI and 85 healthcare professionals in Japan. Individuals with tetraplegia most frequently selected arm/hand function, while individuals with paraplegia more commonly selected bladder function. Comparing individuals with SCI and clinicians, individuals with SCI prioritized bladder and bowel function, whereas the healthcare professionals group assumed that individuals with SCI prioritized blood pressure control, mental health, and motor function. This study highlighted differences between individuals with SCI and clinicians, underscoring the need to include autonomic function in goal setting and to strengthen education for healthcare professionals in these areas.