A scoping review of the Australian spinal cord injury research landscape: Insights and implications for research impact.

CONTEXT: A systematic approach to undertaking spinal cord injury (SCI) related research will maximize the use of limited research funds and ensure that all stakeholders collaborate to address barriers to producing relevant, impactful research.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the breadth and scope of Australian SCI research published between January 2018 and September 2025.

METHODS

A systematic search of five relevant databases for Australian spinal cord injury research published from January 2018 to September 2025 was completed.

RESULTS

A total of 271 eligible studies were included. Most publications reported clinical research (n = 233; 86%), with rehabilitation being the largest clinical research category (n = 76; 32.5%). The majority (n = 163; 70%) reported either cross-sectional, qualitative or retrospective designs, and more than half of all clinical studies were conducted at a single site only (n = 136; 58.4%). Most preclinical publications (n = 38; 14%) focused on discovery science and secondary conditions, with research into neuroprotection and regeneration representing the next largest category. Sixteen publications, all clinical, engaged people with lived experience in the research process.

CONCLUSION

This review identified several issues that impact the efficiency and impact of SCI research in Australia, many of which are relevant to other jurisdictions. Issues include limited multi-center collaborations in both clinical and preclinical research, low engagement of people with lived experience in the research process, and a dearth of research from primary care. To maximize the use of finite research funds, all stakeholders with an interest in SCI outcomes should work together to define research priorities and strategically address barriers to producing relevant, impactful research.