Effect of Locomotor Training on Motor Recovery and Walking Ability in
Patients with Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: A Case Series |
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| Authors: | Shahnawaz Anwer Ameed Equebal Tushar J Palekar M Nezamuddin Osama Neyaz Ahmad Alghadir |
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| Institution: | 1) Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, KSA;2) Padmashree Dr. D. Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth India;3) National Institute for the Orthopedically Handicapped (NIOH), India |
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| Abstract: | Purpose] The aim of this study was to describe the effect of locomotor training on a
treadmill for three individuals who have an incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI). Subjects
and Methods] Three indivduals (2 males, 1 female) with incomplete paraplegia participated
in this prospective case series. All subjects participated in locomotor training for a
maximum of 20 minutes on a motorized treadmill without elevation at a comfortable walking
speed three days a week for four weeks as an adjunct to a conventional physiotherapy
program. The lower extremity strength and walking capabilities were used as the outcome
measures of this study. Lower extremity strength was measured by lower extremity motor
score (LEMS). Walking capability was assessed using the Walking Index for Spinal Cord
Injury (WISCI II). Results] An increase in lower extremity motor score and walking
capabilities at the end of training program was found. Conclusion] Gait training on a
treadmill can enhance motor recovery and walking capabilities in subjects with incomplete
SCI. Further research is needed to generalize these findings and to identify which
patients might benefit from locomotor training.Key words: Locomotor training, Spinal cord injury, Paraplegia |
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