People with spinal cord injury face many challenging secondary health complications that diminish quality of life and capacity for independence.

Secondary health implications may include:

• Loss of control of bladder and bowel function
• Sleep apnoea
• Dysfunctional blood pressure
• Sexual Health complications
• Lung problems
• Bone and joint problems
• Psychological challenges, and vocation
• Loss of deep sensation necessary to prevent pressure sores

Social marginalisation may include:

• Inaccessible public spaces, housing, and workplaces
• Social and cultural barriers which limit opportunities for community participation on an equal basis with other citizens