Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2019 · DOI: 10.1038/s41394-019-0171-2 · Published: May 28, 2019
This case report presents a rehabilitation strategy for a 16-year-old girl with a spinal cord injury and bilateral ankle fractures, who could not undergo conventional rehabilitation due to her fractures. The patient had an L1 burst fracture in conjunction with bilateral ankle fractures. An alternative strategy called “K-ing” (Kneel Standing/Kneel Walking) was used to facilitate truncal activation without loading the ankle joints. This technique helped the patient achieve upright posture stability without affecting the recovery of her ankle injuries. The “K-ing” strategy can be a useful and simple alternative when ankle injuries are present. It can also help avoid complications associated with bedrest caused by delays in starting ambulation.
The “K-ing” strategy provides a safe and effective alternative for early mobilization and postural orientation in SCI patients with lower limb fractures, allowing rehabilitation to progress without compromising fracture healing.
By facilitating early mobilization, the “K-ing” strategy can help prevent complications associated with prolonged bed rest, such as postural hypotension and muscle deconditioning.
The kneel standing and kneel walking components of the “K-ing” strategy can enhance motor function and promote neural activation, contributing to better ambulation outcomes.