Contracture after Spinal Cord Injury - A Prospective Cohort Study
Aims and Significance
The aims of this study are to describe the time course of contracture and investigate factors that might predict contracture in people with spinal cord injury. This is the first study to investigate incidence and predictive factors of contracture prospectively. This study is important because it will identify the incidence of contracture, and what factors might place individuals more at risk of developing contracture.
Methods
This will be a prospective cohort study of patients presenting to 2 main spinal centres in NSW with an acute spinal cord injury. Joint range of movement will be measured initially and reassessed over time. Measures of factors that might predict contracture will also be taken.
Current Status
Recruitment commenced in December 2008.
Funding Agencies
Unfunded.