Lower extremity functional electrical stimulation cycling promotes physical and functional recovery in chronic spinal cord injury

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2013 · DOI: 10.1179/2045772313Y.0000000101 · Published: January 1, 2013

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates if using functional electrical stimulation (FES) during cycling can help people with long-term spinal cord injuries. The researchers compared people who used FES cycling with those who received standard care (range of motion and stretching). The results showed that FES cycling might improve neurological function, muscle mass, and quality of life in people with chronic SCI.

Study Duration

Mean follow-up 29.1 months

Participants

25 people with chronic SCI in FES group, 20 people with SCI in control group

Evidence Level

Retrospective cohort and cross-sectional evaluation

Key Findings

1
FES was associated with an 80% CMSS responder rate compared to 40% in controls, indicating improved neurological function.
2
Quadriceps muscle mass was on average 36% higher and intra/inter-muscular fat 44% lower in the FES group, suggesting improved physical integrity.
3
Quality of life and daily function measures were significantly higher in FES group, showing enhanced overall well-being.

Research Summary

This study examined the effects of long-term lower extremity FES cycling on physical integrity and functional recovery in individuals with chronic SCI. The study found that FES cycling was associated with improved neurological function, increased muscle mass, reduced muscle fat, enhanced muscle strength, and improved quality of life. The authors conclude that FES during cycling may provide substantial physical integrity benefits and enhance neurological and functional performance in chronic SCI.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Strategy

FES cycling can be considered as an important component of activity-based restorative therapy for chronic SCI patients.

Improved Physical Health

FES cycling may lead to better glucose tolerance and reduce the risk of type II diabetes due to increased muscle mass and reduced fat.

Alternative to Medication

FES cycling could potentially reduce the need for anti-spasmodic drugs in managing spasticity.

Lower extremity functional electrical stimulation cycling promotes physical and functional recovery in chronic spinal cord injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Strategy

Improved Physical Health

Alternative to Medication

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Lower extremity functional electrical stimulation cycling promotes physical and functional recovery in chronic spinal cord injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Strategy

Improved Physical Health

Alternative to Medication

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?