Improved walking capacity after complementary ankle-foot surgery and gait training in a person with an incomplete tetraplegia; a case report

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-023-00579-1 · Published: June 19, 2023

Simple Explanation

This case report describes the progress of a 34-year-old male with a chronic incomplete spinal cord injury. He initially could walk only a few steps. After participating in a clinical trial involving targeted epidural spinal stimulation, he improved to walking 100 meters with a wheeled walker and orthotics. However, he still faced challenges with foot placement and pain. Following ankle-foot surgery and 2 months of gait training with body weight support, his walking distance increased to 250 meters with a wheeled walker, without orthotics, along with increased speed and reduced pain.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

34-year-old male with chronic incomplete traumatic cervical SCI

Evidence Level

Level 4; Case Report

Key Findings

1
Surgical interventions can improve gait capacity in chronic incomplete SCI patients.
2
Gait training with a body weight support system is useful to maximize the potential of medical-technical interventions.
3
The patient experienced not only improved gait but also reduced pain and increased independence in daily activities.

Research Summary

This case study highlights the positive impact of medical-technical interventions on gait capacity improvement in a chronic incomplete SCI patient. The patient's gait speed and distance significantly improved, and he achieved the ability to walk without orthotics and therapist supervision. Body weight supported gait training was crucial in boosting the patient's self-confidence for weight-bearing and reducing his fear of falling after surgery.

Practical Implications

Improved Rehabilitation Strategies

This study suggests that surgical interventions, combined with gait training, can be effective in improving walking ability in individuals with incomplete SCI.

Enhanced Patient Independence

The improved gait capacity and reduced pain can contribute to increased independence in daily activities for individuals with incomplete SCI.

Personalized Treatment Plans

The interdisciplinary approach and structured gait analysis can help tailor treatment plans to address specific gait impairments and optimize outcomes.

Study Limitations

1
Single case study limits generalizability.
2
Specific to a patient who received Targeted Epidural Spinal Stimulation (TESS).
3
The long-term effects of the intervention are not evaluated.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury