Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) is a highly debilitating neurological and pathological condition that causes significant motor, sensory and autonomic dysfunctions in the affected individual, affecting their quality of life. In addition, SCI impacts the functionality of the affected person, since depending on the location and severity of the damage, motor and sensory deficits may be manifested.

The objective of the study was to identify the level of functional independence and quality of life in people with SCI.

In this observational, cross-sectional, descriptive and exploratory study, 17 participants of both sexes, with spinal cord injury of any level, participated in an evaluation consisting of an interview to identify sociodemographic data and application of instruments such as the Quality of Life Questionnaire - SF 36 and the Functional Independence Measure (FIM).

Regarding gender, 14 participants were male (83.33%) and 3 were female (16.67%), of which the predominant age range was 40 to 49 years, with 7 individuals (38.88%). Most participants had completed elementary education (38.88%), were single (50%), retired (50%), unemployed (50%) and self-employed (50%). Furthermore, the predominant injury time was between 2 and 10 years (50%), so that 15 individuals used a wheelchair (88.89%) and 11 performed physical activity (61.11%). Regarding SF-36, it is noteworthy that the domains with the highest average were Limitation due to Emotional Aspects (100 ± 49.6) and Mental Health (86 ± 16.5), in addition, the total average of SF-36 was 59.88 ± 27.79. Regarding FIM, the total mean obtained was 110.41, with the self-care item obtaining the highest mean (51.23 ± 2.82), on the other hand, the item with the lowest mean was locomotion (5 ± 4.24).

The levels with the highest mean of functionality and quality of life may be related to participation in physical activity, since the majority practice some type of activity, in addition to having a considerable level of education. In addition, the value of self-care suggests more autonomy and rehabilitation practices after the injury. Implicationns: The SF-36 and the MIF are measures that help in the evaluation of people with SCI as an additional tool to Physiotherapy treatment, enhancing therapeutic strategies for functionality and quality of life. However, studies with a greater number of people with SCI should be carried out to further strengthen evidence-based practice aimed at Physiotherapy.