The Relationship between Physical Activity Level and Functional Status of Subjects with High Spinal Cord Injury

This study investigates the connection between physical activity and functional status in individuals with spinal cord injuries. It compares physically active men who participate in wheelchair rugby with physically inactive men who do not engage in regular sports. The research reveals that physically active individuals demonstrate better functional fitness, greater independence, and an overall improved functional status compared to their inactive counterparts. The findings suggest that regular physical activity, such as wheelchair rugby, can significantly benefit individuals with spinal cord injuries by enhancing their physical and mental well-being.

• 1
  Significant differences were found between physically active and inactive men concerning their functional status, particularly in activities like turning over and adopting a sitting position.
• 2
  The physically active group exhibited better results in all assessed activities, with the most notable differences observed in toilet-related tasks and dressing, such as tooth-brushing and washing the upper body.
• 3
  Physically active subjects showed a higher level of self-reliance in daily activities than the physically inactive subjects, especially in washing and dressing up.