Body composition and spinal cord injury

This chapter provides an overview of the components of body composition, the importance of assessing body composition, and the related changes that occur following spinal cord injury. The existing methods available to measure body composition, the strengths, limitations, and practical considerations when choosing an approach for use in this unique population are outlined. These recommendations reflect the current state of knowledge about body composition following spinal cord injury and body composition assessment methods, applicability in research, and considerations for implementation into clinical practice in individuals with spinal cord injury. Areas warranting further exploration are also described.