Carers’ perspectives on how transcutaneous spinal-cord stimulation impacts quality of life of children with spina-bifida

Matta, Priya and Spencer, Holly 2025. Carers’ perspectives on how transcutaneous spinal-cord stimulation impacts quality of life of children with spina-bifida. Presented at: Chartered Society of Physiotherapy National Student Conference, Newport, Wales, 20 November 2025.

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Abstract

Purpose: Spina bifida is a congenital condition characterised by malformations of the spinal cord, resulting in physical and neurological challenges. Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (TSCS) is an emerging electrical neurotherapy used to improve motor function by enhancing neuromuscular connectivity. While existing literature primarily focuses on the physical effects of transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation through quantitative studies, the experiences of caregivers, who are central to a child’s treatment, remain under explored. This study aims to address this gap by investigating caregivers perspectives on TSCS by acknowledging the biopsychosocial model to understand its social, emotional and practical implications on quality of life. These findings will lay the groundwork for future qualitative studies and guide the development of a more holistic, family centred approach to physiotherapy treatment. Methods: To understand carers’ perspectives on the perceived impact of TSCS on their child’s quality of life, a qualitative interpretative approach was used. Three 30-40 minute semi-structured interviews were conducted remotely via Zoom. Participants were recruited from purposive sampling via a gatekeeper organisation and needed to have been one of the primary care givers responsible for undertaking TSCS at home in the last 12 months. interview questions were derived from background literature and to ensure validity and relevance of the interview questions, methods of triangulation were used, including peer review and consultation with the research supervisor. Braun and Clarkes (2022) thematic analysis framework was used to analyse data. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Cardiff University School of Healthcare Sciences Research Ethic Committee. Results: Thematic analysis identified 5 main themes. 1) perspectives prior to initiation of treatment, 2) physical impacts of TSCS, 3) perceived acceptability of TSCS, 4) social impacts of TSCS, 5) engagement with TSCS. Each of these themes were supported by further sub-themes and has been supported or challenged with existing literature. Conclusion(s): Study findings suggest that TSCS, when used alongside exercise-based activity, including physiotherapy, positively impacts the carers perceived quality of life of children with spina bifida. The benefits were felt to extend beyond physical improvements, allowing children and young people to gain experience in different activities and social scenarios. Further exploration into specific aspects of quality of life, especially the viewpoints of the child or young person are essential to enhance understanding of the role of TSCS. Impact: This is the first known study exploring the lived experience of carers of children and young people with spina bifida using TSCS and how this relates to perceived quality of life. Understanding the viewpoints of carers is essential to ensuring physiotherapy practice provides a family centred and holistic approach to treatment. It has the potential to be relevant to other populations using TSCS. By highlighting the key views of care givers, this research helps physiotherapists tailor future TSCS treatment plans to meet the unique needs of families of children with neurological conditions Additionally, the study will guide future qualitative research in this field, with broad implications for clinical practice.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Poster)
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > Healthcare Sciences
Subjects:	R Medicine > R Medicine (General) T Technology > T Technology (General)
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	4 December 2025
Date of Acceptance:	November 2025
Last Modified:	05 Dec 2025 17:00
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/182909

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