People with spinal cord injury are at high risk for developing secondary conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTI), pressure sores, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and osteoporosis.  It has been suggested that participation in exercise or physical activity can reduce the risk of secondary conditions such as these among people with spinal cord injury (SCI). 

            This project uses a 2-year national survey of people with spinal cord injury, combined with in-depth interviews, to generate new knowledge about SCI and physical activity.  This knowledge will allow health care professionals to target their exercise training recommendations and follow-up to those with SCI who are least likely to exercise, and to those who are most likely to benefit from exercise. 

            This research will determine the extent to which exercise can reduce the risk of a wide variety of specific secondary conditions, and enhance the community integration of people with SCI.