Effects of exercise on reflexes in paraplegic monkeys

Eight monkeys, after complete spinal cord transection at the midthoracic level, were placed in a supine position and an exercise program was given to one hindlimb but not the other. Within 3 days, the exercised limb showed more muscle tone and more active cutaneous and proprioceptive reflexes. The difference increased progressively throughout the observation period of 11 to 36 days. These results suggest an important role of afferent influence on the recovery of spinal shock. The exercise program probably protects the neuromuscular apparatus from deterioration and thus maximize the recovery.