Passive cycling in neurorehabilitation after spinal cord injury: A review
The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2017 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2016.1248524 · Published: January 1, 2017
Simple Explanation
Passive cycling (PC) is explored as a neurorehabilitation option for patients too weak or unstable for active movement. This review examines animal and human studies on PC after spinal cord injury (SCI). Animal studies suggest PC can modulate spinal reflexes, reduce spasticity and autonomic dysreflexia, and elicit cardio-protective effects, potentially increasing neurotrophic factors. Human studies, however, have not consistently shown these benefits. While PC shows promise, current evidence is limited. Further research is needed to understand if PC can activate cortical structures and improve motor performance in SCI patients.
Key Findings
- 1In animal models, passive cycling modulated spinal reflexes and reduced spasticity.
- 2Animal studies showed that PC can reduce autonomic dysreflexia and elicit cardio-protective effects.
- 3Human studies have not consistently shown an effect of PC on spasticity reduction or prevention of cardiovascular complications.
Research Summary
Practical Implications
Potential Therapeutic Intervention
PC may serve as a low-cost therapeutic intervention with potential motor, sensory, and cardiovascular benefits for SCI patients.
Further Research Needed
Carefully designed prospective studies are needed to fully understand the impact of PC on cortical structures and motor performance.
Early Intervention Strategy
PC does not require volitional motor control and can thus be initiated early after SCI.
Study Limitations
- 1Limited evidence to support PC as a standard treatment.
- 2Heterogeneity in injury severity and outcome measures across studies.
- 3Lack of translational studies in humans, with most evidence from rodent models.