[Scuba diving as a rehabilitation approach in paraplegia]

In a group of nine paraplegics a significant increase of pulmonary vital capacity could be shown after participating in a two weeks Scuba (self containing underwater breathing apparatus) diving training. During dives and for a certain time afterwards, a satisfyingly sensed reduction of painful muscle spasms occurred. A comparable group of sailing paraplegics did not show any significant changes within the same time. Because of strict ability criteria combined with an enormous effort of care to meet all security precautions this approach to neurorehabilitation can be offered to a limited number of patients only.