Feasibility of a community-based structured exercise program for persons with spinal cord injury

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2025 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2023.2293327 · Published: January 1, 2024

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Public Health

Simple Explanation

This study investigates whether a community-based exercise program is suitable for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). It aims to improve their fitness and well-being. Participants were divided into an exercise group and a control group. The exercise group participated in a 12-week community-based exercise program, while the control group received physical activity education. The study measured cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, and psychosocial well-being to determine the program's feasibility and effectiveness.

Study Duration

12 weeks

Participants

Thirty-two sedentary community-dwelling adults with any level of spinal cord injury.

Evidence Level

Pilot randomized controlled trial

Key Findings

1
The community-based exercise intervention was feasible and well-received by participants with spinal cord injuries.
2
Participants in the exercise group showed improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness and musculoskeletal strength compared to the control group.
3
The exercise group also experienced improvements in exercise self-efficacy, motivation, and decreased pain intensity.

Research Summary

This study examined the feasibility and effectiveness of a community-based exercise program (CBEP) for persons with spinal cord injury (PwSCI). The exercise group (EG) demonstrated improved cardiorespiratory fitness, musculoskeletal strength, exercise self-efficacy, and decreased pain compared to the control group (CG). The findings suggest that a goal-oriented CBEP is feasible, safe, and highly accepted by PwSCI, with potential for meaningful health improvements.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

The results support the incorporation of community-based exercise programs into rehabilitation plans for individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Research

The study provides a foundation for larger randomized controlled trials to further investigate the benefits of CBEPs for PwSCI.

Policy

Advocating for accessible fitness facilities and trained personnel to support PwSCI in community exercise settings.

Study Limitations

1
Small, non-powered sample size.
2
Premature termination due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
3
Lack of consistently reported, detailed data from the CG to make direct comparisons of frequency, duration, and intensity with the EG.

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