Exercise awareness and barriers after spinal cord injury

World J Orthop, 2014 · DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5312/wjo.v5.i3.158 · Published: July 18, 2014

Simple Explanation

Exercise is very important for managing non-communicable diseases after a spinal cord injury (SCI). Rehabilitation programs should consider the goals of individuals with SCI when prescribing customized exercise programs. It's important to constantly address the barriers to implementing specific exercise programs and the factors that might hide the positive effects of regular exercise as part of patient rehabilitation. The medical community should routinely check physical activity as a vital sign in SCI patients, offering education, nutritional advice, and recreational programs to motivate them and promote an active lifestyle, reducing the impact of chronic medical conditions.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

More than 250000 survivors with SCI in the United States

Evidence Level

Editorial

Key Findings

1
Adults with SCI should engage in at least 20 minutes of aerobic exercise training twice weekly at moderate-vigorous intensity or 3 sets of 8-10 repetitions of resistance training to major muscle groups.
2
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) or neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) training of paralyzed lower extremity muscles can offset skeletal muscle atrophy, regional adiposity, and improve metabolic profile.
3
Individuals with SCI participating in regular wellness programs or physical activity routines are less likely to develop certain medical conditions.

Research Summary

Exercise is essential for managing non-communicable diseases after spinal cord injury (SCI). It is important to be aware of the significance of prescribing a customized exercise program that aligns with the goals of individuals with SCI in the rehabilitation process. The barriers to implementing specific exercise programs, as well as factors masking the outcomes of regular exercise, should be continuously addressed as part of patient care. Routine physical activity should be a routinely checked vital sign in patients with SCI. Education, nutritional counseling, and recreational programs may motivate the SCI community, reinforcing active lifestyles and reducing the impact of chronic medical disorders.

Practical Implications

Customized Exercise Programs

Rehabilitation programs should prioritize creating personalized exercise plans that align with individual goals and capabilities.

Address Exercise Barriers

Continuously identify and address barriers to exercise adherence, such as lack of access to facilities or transportation, to promote long-term engagement.

Promote Active Lifestyles

Encourage active lifestyles through education, nutritional counseling, and recreational programs to reduce the impact of chronic medical conditions.

Study Limitations

1
Lack of access to exercise facilities
2
Lack of accessible public transportation
3
Lack of appropriate guidelines on how to evaluate the effectiveness of specific exercise intervention in the SCI community

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