Spinal cord injury and electrical stimulation: analysis of neuroplasticity in a case report

Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) is a highly prevalent condition, with just below 1 million new cases yearly, deriving for traumatic and non-traumatic causes. It is a significant cause for disability, greatly impacting quality of life of affected individuals, and as such, requires effective rehabilitation methods in order to maintain daily function. Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) is a helpful treatment, stimulating muscle contraction and plasticity through electrical currents.

This is a Case-Report of two cases with different SCI causes, submitted to a 1-year treatment with NMES under identical protocols. ASIA neurological examination with AIS classification was performed before and after treatment, as well as surface Electromyographic assessment for the Vastus Lateralis and Rectus Femoris muscles bilaterally.

Neurological recovery was remarkable after 1 year, with AIS increasing from a score of A to C in the first case and B to C in the second. EMG assessment showed a bilateral increase of peak values as well as successful Quadriceps muscle contraction generating knee extension.

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation may be a promising strategy in the rehabilitation of spinal cord injuries, with the potential to aid in functional recovery and modulation of neuroplasticity. Preliminary observations, such as those in this case report, suggest that the technique may be associated with improvements in mobility and quality of life in patients, although controlled studies are needed to confirm these effects.