International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury: Reliability Testing When Applied to Children and Youth

Principal Investigator: Lawrence Vogel, M.D.
Co-Investigators: Jennifer Schottler, MPT; Kathy Chlan, B.A.

The primary aim of this study is twofold. First, the reliability of the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISCSCI) in Children and Youth will be evaluated. Secondly, pediatric modifications to the ISCSCI will be developed and tested for reliability.  To achieve the objectives of this study, a cross sectional cohort of at least 400 children and youth with SCI is being recruited to enroll in the study. In addition, data collected from this study may be used to determine the association of neurological impairment with spinal cord injury with ambulation, school attendance, and upper extremity tendon transfers as well as with complication of spinal cord injury including spasticity, contractures, autonomic dysreflexia and hyperhydrosis.