Postural Control Assessment in Physically Active and Sedentary Individuals With Paraplegia

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate functional independence and trunk control during maximum-range tasks in individuals with spinal cord injuries, who were divided into sedentary (SSI, n=10) and physically active (PASI, n=10) groups . Methods: Anamnesis was conducted and level and type of injury were identified (according to the American Spinal Injury Association protocol, ASIA) and the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) questionnaire was applied. For the forward and lateral reach task, the subjects were instructed to reach as far as possible. Mean data were compared using the unpaired t test and Mann-Whitney test and differences were considered significant when p<0.05 . Results: The PASI group performed better in self-care activities (PASI: 40.8±0.42 points, SSI: 38.0±3.58 points, p=0.01), sphincter control (PASI: 10.5±1.84 points, SSI: 8.2±3.04 points, p=0.02), transfers (PASI: 20.7±0.48 points, SSI: 16.9±4.27 points, p=0.04), and total FIM score (PASI: 104.0±2.30 points, SSI 105.1±8.56 points, p=0.01). On the maximum reach task, the PASI group had a greater average range in all directions evaluated (p<0.05) . Conclusion: The continuous practice of exercise increased motor function independence and trunk control in individuals with complete spinal cord injury. Level of Evidence II, Prospective Comparative Study.

Community exercise programing and its potential influence on quality of life and functional reach for individuals with spinal cord injury

“…Improvements in selfesteem, QoL, and fitness levels have been reported following community exercise programs in individuals with SCI. 16,17,27,28,[30][31][32] This study revealed a statistically significant increase in QoL, as demonstrated by the LiSAT-9 outcome measure. Garshick et al found a similar positive association between prescribed exercise programs and a higher satisfaction of life for individuals with SCI.…”

“…The program volunteers took the measurement from the distal end of the third metacarpal along a wall-mounted yardstick placed at the height of the acromion of the participant's dominant extremity. 25,27 Measurements were reported in centimeters. The mFRT is a reliable outcome measure for measuring forward reach and sitting balance in persons with SCI who are unable to stand.…”

“…A prospective study conducted by Magnani et al compared physically active and sedentary individuals with SCI. 27 The physically active group had significant improvements over the sedentary group in transfers, self-care activities, sphincter control, anterior and lateral functional reach, and final score of the functional independence measure (FIM). The study suggested that improvements in postural control, or trunk stability, could lead to greater functional independence.…”

“…Therefore, the evidence points to improvements in functional reach in physically active individuals positively impacting functional independence, and that an improvement in functional reach can also impact QoL. 12,27 Programs that eliminate barriers and provide targeted facilities, equipment, and guidance for those with SCI are intended to address the lack of postrehabilitation care within the medical system. A community-based exercise program in New York City, Spinal Mobility, was designed by physical therapists to provide a post-rehabilitation exercise opportunity specifically for people with SCI.…”

Comparison of Upper Extremity Physical Fitness Levels in Wheelchair Archery and Basketball Athletes

“…The strength of shoulder flexor, extensor, abductor, internal and external rotator muscles and elbow flexor muscles were measured with a Lafayette (Pelican 1150 Case, Pelican Products, Torrance, CA USA) myometer device (Livingston et al, 2015). Modified Functional Reach Test for evaluating the trunk balance was applied in 3 different versions including unilateral, bilateral and lateral reach (Magnani et al, 2017).…”