Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation Improves Respiratory Muscle Strength and Function in Subjects with Cervical Spinal Cord Injury: Original Research

Biomedicines, 2023 · DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11082121 · Published: July 27, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Pulmonology Neurology

Simple Explanation

This study explores how transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS), a non-invasive technique, combined with inspiratory muscle training (IMT) can improve breathing in people with cervical spinal cord injury (cSCI). The research involved applying tSCS at specific points on the spine while participants also underwent IMT. Researchers then measured breathing strength and lung capacity to see if there were any improvements compared to IMT alone. The results suggest that combining tSCS with IMT can lead to better respiratory function in cSCI subjects, offering a potential way to improve their breathing and overall quality of life.

Study Duration

January 2020 and January 2023

Participants

31 patients with cervical SCI were recruited, 16 completed the inclusion criteria.

Evidence Level

Randomized controlled trial

Key Findings

1
Subjects reported significant improvement in breathlessness/dyspnea post intervention.
2
Inspiratory thorax muscle strength measured by MIP improved significantly compared to baseline.
3
Expiratory thorax muscle strength (MEP) also improved significantly.

Research Summary

This study investigates the impact of transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) combined with inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on respiratory function in individuals with cervical spinal cord injury (cSCI). The findings indicate that tSCS+IMT leads to significant improvements in breathlessness, hypophonia, inspiratory and expiratory muscle strength, and pulmonary vital capacity compared to IMT alone. The study concludes that tSCS shows promise as an adjunctive therapy for respiratory impairments following SCI, though further research is needed to validate these results and establish long-term benefits.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Strategy

tSCS can be integrated into existing respiratory rehabilitation programs to enhance outcomes in individuals with cSCI.

Improved Quality of Life

Enhanced respiratory function can lead to improved breathing, speaking, and coughing abilities, potentially reducing hospital admissions and increasing overall well-being.

Further Research

Future studies should focus on optimizing tSCS parameters and validating its long-term effects in larger populations.

Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation Improves Respiratory Muscle Strength and Function in Subjects with Cervical Spinal Cord Injury: Original Research

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Strategy

Improved Quality of Life

Further Research

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation Improves Respiratory Muscle Strength and Function in Subjects with Cervical Spinal Cord Injury: Original Research

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Strategy

Improved Quality of Life

Further Research

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?