Sleep disorders in patients with spinal cord injury: A comprehensive review of assessment strategies and available treatment
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) frequently experience sleep disorders, including sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), sleep-related movement disorders (SMDs), circadian rhythm sleep disorders (CRSDs), and insomnia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus to identify systematic reviews, meta-analyses, clinical guidelines, and relevant studies on sleep disorders in individuals with SCI. A systematic review proved impossible; instead, studies were selected based on their relevance. The main findings were synthesized into a narrative overview. STATE OF THE ART: Sleep disorders exacerbate SCI-related complications. However, despite their high prevalence, many patients remain undiagnosed and untreated. Therefore, the goal of research in this field is to: (i) develop home-based diagnostic methods for people who are unable or unwilling to attend an overnight sleep study, (ii) identify the reasons for missed diagnoses, side effects, and factors related to ineffectual treatment adherence, and (iii) develop safe treatment options. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: SDB is highly prevalent, confined primarily to high-level injuries, and presents difficult diagnostic problems because of its distinct clinical patterns. Home-based diagnostics and noninvasive treatment methods show promise, but adherence to these methods and their applicability in terms of SCI patients remain challenging. SMDs, such as periodic leg movement syndrome and restless legs syndrome, often accompany other SCI symptoms and require careful differential diagnosis. Pharmacological treatment provides partial relief, but safer, long-term alternatives are needed. Both CRSDs and insomnia tend to be aggravated by pain and psychological factors. New strategies such as melatonin and behavioral interventions offer brighter future for patients. FUTURE DIRECTIONS: Additional research is needed to develop strategies to prevent and treat exacerbations and establish personalized diagnostic/treatment approaches, including home monitoring.
DOI: 10.5603/pjnns.105927
Institution: University of Zielona Góra
Language: English
Topic: Sleep and related disorders
Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4415812230
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