Randomized Trial of Functional Electrical Stimulation Therapy for Walking in Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: Effects on Quality of Life and Community Participation

Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2013 · DOI: 10.1310/sci1904-245 · Published: January 1, 2013

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates whether using functional electrical stimulation (FES) during walking can improve the quality of life and community participation for people with incomplete spinal cord injuries, compared to regular exercise. Participants with chronic incomplete SCI were divided into two groups: one received FES-assisted walking therapy, and the other participated in aerobic and resistance training. The researchers measured various aspects of well-being, such as life satisfaction and community involvement, to see if there were any significant differences between the two groups after the interventions.

Study Duration

16 weeks intervention, 12 months follow-up

Participants

34 individuals with chronic (≥18 months) incomplete SCI

Evidence Level

Level 1, Randomized Controlled Trial

Key Findings

1
The FES group showed a significant increase in mobility subscores on the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM) compared to the exercise group.
2
No significant differences were detected between the two groups for other outcomes such as life satisfaction, community participation, and activities of daily living.
3
Both groups reported positive gains in well-being from participating in the trial.

Research Summary

This study evaluated the effects of FES-assisted walking therapy on quality of life and community participation in individuals with chronic incomplete SCI, comparing it to a conventional exercise program. The FES group demonstrated a significant improvement in mobility, but no significant differences were observed in other measures of well-being between the FES and exercise groups. Despite the lack of significant differences in many measured outcomes, qualitative data suggested that both interventions led to perceived benefits in independence, mobility, and psychological well-being.

Practical Implications

Improved Mobility

FES-assisted walking can be an effective intervention to improve mobility in individuals with incomplete SCI.

Holistic Well-being

Future research should focus on identifying more sensitive measures to capture the broader benefits of exercise and FES on psychological well-being and community participation.

Personalized Therapy

Therapy should be tailored to individual needs and goals to maximize perceived benefits and improve overall quality of life.

Study Limitations

1
The SCIM was only collected at baseline and 12 months, limiting the ability to assess changes at the end of the intervention.
2
The measures used may not have been sensitive enough to detect changes in well-being.
3
The higher dropout rate in the control group might have affected the outcomes.

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