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Comparison of the Levels of Hematological Parameters at Rest and after Maximum Exercise between Physically Active People with Spinal Cord Injury and Able-Bodied People

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2021 · DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312323 · Published: November 24, 2021

Spinal Cord InjuryCardiovascular ScienceRehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how blood parameters change after exercise in physically active people with spinal cord injuries compared to able-bodied individuals. It looks at factors like red blood cell count, white blood cell count, and other related measures to understand how the body responds to physical stress in these two groups. The research involves a maximal exercise test where participants push themselves to their limits. Blood samples are taken before and after this test to analyze differences in blood composition and how it relates to their physical condition. The findings aim to highlight any vulnerabilities or differences in hematological responses to exercise in individuals with spinal cord injuries. This knowledge could help in designing better rehabilitation and exercise programs tailored to their specific needs.

Study Duration
Not specified
Participants
11 males with spinal cord injury and 11 able-bodied persons
Evidence Level
Not specified

Key Findings

  • 1
    People with spinal cord injury had statistically lower RBC, HCT, Hb, and PLT counts compared to the control group.
  • 2
    A statistically significant difference was observed in the exercise-induced change of platelet count, white blood cell count, and the percentage of lymphocytes and granulocytes between the two groups.
  • 3
    People with spinal cord injury may be more prone to microcytic anemia compared to able-bodied individuals.

Research Summary

The study aimed to identify differences in hematological responses to exercise between able-bodied individuals and physically active people with cervical spinal cord injuries. An incremental stress test was performed on both groups, and blood samples were analyzed for various hematological parameters before and after the exercise. The results indicated that individuals with spinal cord injuries had significantly lower levels of RBC, HCT, Hb, and PLT compared to the control group. Furthermore, there were statistically significant differences in exercise-induced changes in platelet count, white blood cell count, and the percentage of lymphocytes and granulocytes between the two groups. The study concluded that people with spinal cord injuries are more susceptible to microcytic anemia compared to able-bodied people, and their post-exercise recovery, as indicated by leukocyte subpopulation shifts, is delayed.

Practical Implications

Targeted Interventions

The findings suggest that individuals with spinal cord injuries may require targeted interventions to prevent and manage microcytic anemia.

Rehabilitation Strategies

Rehabilitation programs should consider the delayed post-exercise recovery in individuals with spinal cord injuries, adjusting exercise intensity and recovery periods accordingly.

Personalized Exercise Plans

Personalized exercise plans should be developed to address the specific hematological responses and limitations of individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    The study was conducted on physically active people with spinal cord injuries and healthy students.
  • 2
    Tests on non-physically active males with damaged spinal cord were not performed due to lack of consent.
  • 3
    Generalizability may be limited due to the specific characteristics of the study participants.

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