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  4. Effects of walking training on risk markers of cardiovascular disease in individuals with chronic spinal cord injury

Effects of walking training on risk markers of cardiovascular disease in individuals with chronic spinal cord injury

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2022 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2020.1853332 · Published: January 1, 2022

Spinal Cord InjuryCardiovascular ScienceRehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study looked at how an 8-week walking program affected heart health markers in people with long-term spinal cord injuries. The walking program involved using a treadmill with body weight support and a device to help with walking movements. The study found improvements in some heart health markers, suggesting that walking training could be beneficial for this population.

Study Duration
8 weeks
Participants
Eleven participants with chronic SCI
Evidence Level
Pilot, single-group, pretest-posttest study

Key Findings

  • 1
    Walking training led to a statistically significant decrease in HbA1c level, indicating improved glycemic control.
  • 2
    The lipid profile improved, with a clinically significant increase in HDL-C level and a statistically significant decrease in LDL-C level.
  • 3
    There was a significant reduction in IL-6 levels after training, suggesting a decrease in inflammation.

Research Summary

This study investigated the impact of an 8-week walking training program on cardiovascular risk markers in individuals with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). The results showed significant improvements in HDL-C levels and reductions in HbA1c and IL-6 levels, suggesting potential benefits for cardiovascular health. The authors concluded that walking training may offer favorable changes in cardiovascular risk markers for individuals with chronic SCI, warranting further research through randomized controlled trials.

Practical Implications

Improved Cardiovascular Health

Walking training can potentially reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in individuals with chronic SCI.

Enhanced Glycemic Control

The study suggests that walking training may help improve blood sugar levels in individuals with SCI.

Reduced Inflammation

Walking training may contribute to lowering inflammation levels in individuals with chronic SCI.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Small sample size
  • 2
    Absence of a control group
  • 3
    Lack of follow-up assessment

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