Epidural spinal cord stimulation improves locomotor performance in low ASIA C, wheelchair-dependent, spinal cord-injured individuals: Insights from metabolic response

Kathleen J. Ganley, Wayne T. Willis, Michael R. Carhart, Jiping He, Richard M. Herman

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

10 Scopus citations

Abstract

Epidural spinal cord stimulation (ESCS) may be a useful tool for the recovery of locomotor function in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). In this article, the history of its use is briefly summarized. Results from a novel intervention combining ESCS and partial weight-bearing therapy in 2 persons with ASIA C incomplete SCI are discussed. Specifically, each person was able to walk faster and further with stimulation than without stimulation. Specific changes in muscle metabolism corresponded to the changes in locomotor performance. Most important, each person was independent with home and community ambulation (with a walker) at the end of the training period.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)50-63
Number of pages14
JournalTopics in Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation
Volume11
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 2005

Keywords

  • Endurance
  • Fuel metabolism
  • Home and community ambulation
  • Indirect calorimetry
  • Joint kinematics
  • O cost of transport
  • Partial weight bearing
  • Sense of effort
  • Treadmill training
  • Walking speed

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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