Chemical dependence and spinal cord injury outcome

This report describes three currently funded projects. The common goal of these projects is to expand our knowledge about substance use by persons with spinal cord injuries (SCI). Some persons with spinal cord injuries may be at risk for substance abuse, dependence or addiction and, as a consequence, have their rehabilitation outcome profoundly influenced by substance abuse. Early identification of persons with spinal cord injuries who abuse or are addicted to substances, or who are at risk for abuse, should decrease the cost of rehabilitation and improve rehabilitation outcome. Since the annual medical costs for all persons with SCI is estimated at $1.9 billion, timely and effective intervention for persons with cord injuries who abuse or are at risk for chemical abuse is both humane and cost effective.