Step Ergometer Training Augmented With Functional Electrical Stimulation in Individuals With Chronic Spinal Cord...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Spinal cord injury (SCI) frequently leads to impaired mobility and independence, posing significant challenges for rehabilitation.
• Developing effective interventions to restore walking function is a critical goal in SCI recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and impact of the Stimulation and Ergometer Training Protocol (STEP) on walking function in individuals with chronic motor incomplete SCI.
• To evaluate the STEP's potential for improving mobility outcomes in a rehabilitation setting.

Main Methods:

• A 12-week walking training program combining functional electrical stimulation (FES) on a step ergometer with overground walking was implemented.
• Fourteen individuals with chronic motor incomplete SCI (>1 year post-injury) participated in the study.
• Outcome measures included walking speed, endurance, the Walking Index for Spinal Cord Injury II (WISCI II), lower extremity motor scores, and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test.

Main Results:

• Ten out of 14 participants completed the 12-week STEP intervention.
• Completing participants showed significant improvements in walking speed (0.13 m/s) and endurance (117 ft).
• Positive changes were observed in WISCI II scores (50% improved by at least one level), lower extremity motor scores (60% improvement), and TUG test times.

Conclusions:

• The STEP intervention is feasible and demonstrates potential for improving walking function in individuals with chronic motor incomplete SCI.
• While retention was impacted by pain and exertion, the STEP was well-tolerated and showed promise for enhancing mobility.
• Further research is warranted to compare the efficacy of the STEP with other walking recovery interventions for SCI.