As compared to adult-onset spinal cord injury (SCI), individuals with
childhood-onset SCI are unique in several ways. First, as a result of their
younger age at injury and longer lifespan, individuals with pediatric-onset SCI
are particularly susceptible to long-term complications related to a sedentary
lifestyle, such as cardiovascular disease, and overuse syndromes, such as upper
extremity pain. Second, they experience complications, such as scoliosis and hip
dysplasia, which may affect them both during childhood and as adults.
Persons with pediatric-onset SCI also have unique developmental needs. They
experience the typical ongoing challenges of each developmental stage (e.g.,
childhood, adolescence) as well as changes owing to their SCI. Finally,
individuals