“Why Research Matters” is a content-rich, informative annual publication by Spinal Research Institute. Every magazine issue features some of the year’s most valuable and cutting-edge spinal cord injury research. More importantly, all the articles in the publication are easily accessible to every general reader, which helps us understand the latest trend of studies about SCI and some practical approaches that can improve the daily life of individuals with spinal cord injuries.

The new issue features 13 articles written by spinal cord injury researchers and clinicians from 11 countries about their published or in-progress research. The articles were chosen by a professional judging group based on easy-to-understand and compelling standards. Undoubtedly, they all relate to some of 2022’s most valuable research projects.

• Destabilising barriers to regeneration – using gene therapy to reduce scarring after spinal cord injury
• Adaptive rowing experience for people with spinal cord injury
• Exploring ageing in spinal cord injury for promising holistic rehabilitation care & service in Sabah, Borneo
• AI-based electrical stimulation for locomotion rehabilitation after SCI
• Activity-based therapy after spinal cord injury
• From autoantibodies that combat the SILENCE in traumatic spinal cord injury treatment
• When research isn’t sexy but still matters – the impact of oral health after spinal cord injury
• Is depression just a psychological consequence of spinal cord injury?
• Breathing life into SCI research
• Effects of dual-task exercise training on balance in elderly population with spinal cord injury
• Lived experience of adult students with spinal cord injury returning to study in Bangladesh
• Can we turn the upside-down quality of life of individuals with spinal cord injury right side up?
• Can you hear a million voices?

Please access the magazine for these articles. From my perspective, I would like to recommend checking out two of the pieces that delve into the crucial role of exercise and activity in spinal cord injury rehabilitation, including:

• Adaptive rowing experience for people with spinal cord injury
• Activity-based therapy after spinal cord injury

The spinal cord injury research showcased in the two articles highlight the benefits of adaptive rowing exercises and activity-based therapy for individuals with SCI. These findings align with the mission of NeuroMoves, our evidence-based exercise and therapy service. Our NeuroMoves sites, located in 16 locations across Australia, are dedicated to helping individuals with SCI maximise their mobility, function and independence. For more information about our service, please visit the NeuroMoves page.