POSTURAL CONTROL ASSESSMENT IN PHYSICALLY ACTIVE AND SEDENTARY INDIVIDUALS WITH PARAPLEGIA

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Kinesiology

Background:

• Spinal cord injury (SCI) significantly impacts functional independence and trunk control.
• Sedentary lifestyles can exacerbate functional limitations in individuals with SCI.
• The role of physical activity in mitigating these effects requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare functional independence and trunk control during maximum-range tasks between sedentary and physically active individuals with SCI.
• To assess the impact of regular exercise on motor function and independence in SCI.

Main Methods:

• Participants were divided into sedentary (SSI) and physically active (PASI) groups (n=10 each).
• Data collected included injury level/type (ASIA protocol) and Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores.
• Maximum forward and lateral reach tasks were performed, with statistical analysis using unpaired t and Mann-Whitney tests (p<0.05 significance).

Main Results:

• The PASI group showed significantly better performance in self-care, sphincter control, and transfers.
• PASI participants achieved higher total FIM scores compared to the SSI group (p=0.01).
• Greater average range of motion in all directions was observed in the PASI group during maximum reach tasks (p<0.05).

Conclusions:

• Continuous exercise practice enhances motor function independence in individuals with complete SCI.
• Regular physical activity improves trunk control and functional capabilities in the SCI population.
• Evidence suggests a positive correlation between exercise and improved outcomes for individuals with SCI.