Cardiometabolic Disease in Primary Care and Specialized Neurological Rehabilitation: Current Strategies, Perspectives, & Lived Experiences

Cardiometabolic disease (CMD) is an overlooked secondary complication in persons with spinal cord injury/disease (SCI/D), multiple sclerosis (MS), cerebral palsy (CP), and spina bifida (SB). Little is known about strategies to mitigate CMD risk in these populations, or the perspectives of patients, physiatrists, and primary care providers on the topic. A scoping review and mixed-methods study were conducted to explore the literature and lived experiences. Analysis of 120 studies revealed a dominant focus on CMD diagnosis, with a subset exploring therapeutic interventions to mitigate risk in the SCI/D population. Patients, physiatrists, and primary care providers differ in knowledge and confidence in CMD management and/or treatment provision. Lifestyle interventions and self-management strategies emerged as key approaches, but physical and economic barriers limit their adoption. Further research is needed to develop equitable, personalized interventions to mitigate CMD. Resource development and knowledge translation may help prioritize CMD in rehabilitation and primary care settings.