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Published on: June 16, 2016
Activity-specific aquatic therapy targeting gait for a patient with incomplete spinal cord injury
Tracy Wall1, Lisa Falvo2, Adam Kesten3
1a School of Health Sciences, Department of Physical Therapy , Quinnipiac University , Hamden , CT , USA.
Introduction:
Aquatic therapy can lead to improved mobility and health in individuals with various conditions. This case report looks at an activity-specific aquatic therapy targeting gait for a patient with incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI).
Case Report:
The patient participated in an individualized aquatic therapy program two times a week for 6 weeks. Assessment occurred prior to the intervention. There were two follow-up assessments after the intervention. Follow-up assessment 1 was completed within the same week as the final intervention. Follow-up assessment 2 was completed 4 weeks after the first follow-up to assess for carryover.
Results:
Improvements that met minimal detectable change and minimal clinically important difference were noted in The Walking for Spinal Cord Injury Index-II, Spinal Cord Injury Functional Ambulation Index gait parameters, and gait speed.
Discussion:
An activity-specific aquatic therapy program improved gait in a patient with iSCI. The properties of water create a practical environment for safe practice of skills. Further studies are warranted in large samples.
