Toronto clinic takes new approach to neurologic injury, damage

CAN MED ASSOC J, 1993 · DOI: · Published: January 1, 1993

Neurology Neuroplasticity Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

The Magee Clinic in Toronto uses neurorehabilitation techniques based on scientific evidence that brain and spinal cord injuries can often be reversed. They combine neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to repair itself or find new pathways, with home-based technologies that stimulate repair. Therapeutic electrical stimulation (TES) strengthens muscles, allowing damaged areas to respond better to the brain's signals, leading to further repair and increased muscular strength.

Study Duration

2-4 years

Participants

More than 2000 patients

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Children with cerebral palsy and spina bifida have reduced their reliance on leg braces and are living more normal lives.
2
Adults with post-polio syndrome, incomplete spinal cord injury, and stroke-related neurologic deficits have improved their mobility and independence.
3
Some patients have experienced improvements in bowel and bladder control, although the reasons for this are not yet understood.

Research Summary

The Magee Clinic in Toronto employs neurorehabilitation techniques, including therapeutic electrical stimulation (TES) and electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback, to help patients recover from neurological injuries. TES involves applying low-intensity electrical current to weakened muscles, while EMG biofeedback helps patients relearn normal movement patterns. The clinic's approach has shown promising results, with patients experiencing improved mobility, independence, and even bowel and bladder control.

Practical Implications

Improved Patient Outcomes

Neurorehabilitation techniques offer hope for reversing neurological damage and improving the quality of life for patients with conditions like cerebral palsy, spina bifida, spinal cord injury, and stroke.

Reduced Healthcare Costs

Home-based technologies and self-care approaches can potentially reduce the need for expensive physiotherapy and assistive devices, leading to substantial cost savings.

Further Research Opportunities

The success of neuroplasticity-based treatments opens up new avenues for research in areas such as multiple sclerosis, geriatric fitness, and sports injuries.

Study Limitations

1
The exact mechanisms by which TES strengthens muscles are still poorly understood.
2
Self-treatment lasts from 2 to 4 years, requiring a significant time commitment from patients.
3
It is not possible to predict in advance which patients will experience improvements in bowel and bladder control.

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