Assessing How Patients with Spinal Cord Injury Are Affected by Climate Change and Extreme Weather: A Scoping Review

Authors

Lien-Chieh Lin, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
Hung-Chou Chen, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
Tsan-Hon Liou, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, TaiwanFollow

Abstract

Climate change and the rising frequency of extreme weather events (EWEs) pose significant challenges to vulnerable populations, particularly individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). These patients are at greater risk due to impaired thermoregulation, limited mobility, poor sensation, and dependence on caregivers or adaptive equipment, increasing their exposure to climate-related hazards and disrupting healthcare access during disasters. Although climate change impacts on the general population are well-documented, research on specific disability groups like SCI patients remains limited. This scoping review investigates how SCI patients perceive and experience health risks from climate change and EWEs, as well as factors influencing their vulnerability and adaptive capacity. A comprehensive literature search across PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library identified 14 studies addressing health outcomes, risks, or disability-related impacts in SCI patients when facing EWEs and climate change; due to the lack of evidence and heterogeneity between studies in this field, we adopted a scoping method to include studies. We excluded those focused solely on SCI athletes. Data was analyzed using a content analysis approach. The main findings of our review revealed that SCI patients face heightened risks from temperature extremes and reduced healthcare access during EWEs. Their vulnerability is frequently underestimated, and preparedness is inadequate, though telemedicine and sustainable practices show promise for mitigation. Furthermore, this review highlights the need for targeted education, sustainable healthcare practices, and enhanced disaster preparedness to address these challenges. We promoted suggestions for rehabilitation facilities including implementing patient education, telemedicine, sustainable practices, and emergency preparedness. Future research should focus on more specific and detailed protocols for improving risk perception, evaluating the role of telemedicine in SCI care during climate stress, and promoting sustainable SCI management practices.

Recommended Citation

Lin, Lien-Chieh; Chen, Hung-Chou; and Liou, Tsan-Hon (2025) "Assessing How Patients with Spinal Cord Injury Are Affected by Climate Change and Extreme Weather: A Scoping Review," Rehabilitation Practice and Science: Vol. 2025: Iss. 2, Article 7.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.6315/3005-3846.2269
Available at: https://rps.researchcommons.org/journal/vol2025/iss2/7