Trunk strength and function using the multidirectional reach distance in individuals with non-traumatic spinal cord injury

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2014 · DOI: 10.1179/2045772314Y.0000000246 · Published: January 1, 2014

Simple Explanation

This study investigates trunk strength and function in individuals with non-traumatic spinal cord injury (NTSCI) during inpatient rehabilitation. Trunk control is vital for daily activities, but measuring it in SCI patients is challenging. This research aims to understand changes in trunk strength and seated functional reach in NTSCI patients and explore their relationships. The study compares trunk strength and seated reach between walkers and wheelchair users with NTSCI. It also examines the connections between trunk and hip strength and seated functional reach, providing insights into rehabilitation potential and intervention strategies. The findings suggest that assessing trunk and hip strength, along with the Multidirectional Reach Test (MDRT), is feasible and relevant in clinical settings. Further research is needed to increase participant numbers and inform clinicians about effective rehabilitation interventions.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

32 subacute inpatients (mean age 48.0 ± 15.4 years)

Evidence Level

Observational study

Key Findings

1
Significant differences in strength measures were found between walkers and wheelchair users, but not for MDRT at admission.
2
Left- and right-sided reaches increased in wheelchair users only during rehabilitation.
3
Associations were found between changes in hip strength, trunk strength, and reach distance.

Research Summary

The study characterized trunk strength, hip strength, and reach distance in individuals with NTSCI during rehabilitation, finding differences between walkers and wheelchair users. Walkers had significantly greater trunk and hip strength compared to wheelchair users at admission. Wheelchair users showed significant increases in left and right reach distances during rehabilitation. Changes in hip and trunk strength were related to changes in MDRT distance, suggesting a relationship between strength and functional reach.

Practical Implications

Clinical Assessment

The study supports the use of trunk and hip strength assessments, along with the MDRT, in clinical practice to monitor changes during rehabilitation.

Rehabilitation Strategies

The findings suggest the importance of developing customized therapies to improve sitting balance during functional activities, particularly for wheelchair users.

Further Research

Larger-scale studies are needed to generalize findings and explore the relationships between trunk strength, rehabilitation interventions, and functional outcomes.

Study Limitations

1
The study did not document specific rehabilitation interventions.
2
The study measured MDRT distances in six directions but trunk strength in only four directions.
3
The study was conducted using a small sample of 32 individuals with NTSCI.

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