Autogenic biofeedback training improves autonomic responses in a participant with cervical motor complete spinal cord injury-case report

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2023 · DOI: 10.1038/s41394-023-00593-3 · Published: July 4, 2023

Simple Explanation

This study explores a non-drug approach called Autogenic Feedback Training Exercise (AFTE) to help people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) manage problems with their autonomic nervous system, which controls things like blood pressure and digestion. AFTE combines relaxation techniques with real-time feedback on body functions. It was originally developed by NASA to help astronauts deal with similar issues after spaceflight. The study involved training a woman with a cervical SCI using a modified AFTE program. Researchers measured her blood pressure, heart rate, and digestive activity before, during, and after the training to see if there were any improvements.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

One female participant with C5/6-AIS A SCI and one non-injured male control participant

Evidence Level

Level IV, Single-subject case design

Key Findings

1
The participant with SCI showed improvements in blood pressure and gastric electrical activity after AFTE training.
2
The SCI participant's microvascular blood volume decreased 23% from the beginning to the end of the stimulation cycles.
3
The non-injured participant showed negligible changes in heart rate, gastric electrical activity, and blood pressure.

Research Summary

This case study investigated the effects of Autogenic Feedback Training Exercise (AFTE) on autonomic nervous system responses in a participant with cervical spinal cord injury (SCI). The participant with SCI completed eight AFTE sessions and showed improvements in blood pressure and gastric electrical activity, suggesting that AFTE may help minimize symptoms of dysautonomia. The findings suggest AFTE could be a non-pharmacologic intervention to improve autonomic responses in people with SCI.

Practical Implications

Potential Non-Pharmacological Intervention

AFTE may provide a novel, non-drug approach to managing dysautonomia in individuals with SCI, potentially reducing reliance on medication.

Improved Quality of Life

By improving autonomic responses, AFTE could enhance the quality of life for people with SCI, addressing issues like hypotension and digestive problems.

Accessibility and Convenience

The study suggests AFTE can be implemented in clinical or home settings, offering a convenient and accessible therapeutic option.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size of only two participants
2
Lack of age and sex matching between SCI and non-injured participants
3
Need for future studies with larger sample sizes and more comprehensive autonomic assessments

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