Many studies have shown that if you are a person with a spinal cord injury (SCI), you can benefit from a regular fitness program. This is true in spite of the fact that your results may differ from those of an able-bodied population. Exercise reduces anxiety and depression, which in turn improves self-esteem and independence.

Positive results came from a study published in 2001, which was designed to evaluate what a fitness program could do for persons with SCI even months after their initial rehabilitation was completed. They also wanted to measure functional independence before and after the 16-week program.

Thirteen young participants (12 men, 1 woman) with thoracic SCI performed mobility, strength, coordination, aerobic resistance, and relaxation activities for two hours, three times per week. They lifted weights (bench press, military press, butterfly press), did repetitions with dumbbells, used an arm crank, did neck curl backs, and performed wheelchair skill tests. Some sessions included aquatic therapy.

This was a very positive study with the results showing significant improvement in functional independence. That held true no matter what level of thoracic injury each participant had suffered. Physical capacity and muscle strength also improved significantly.

Previous studies had shown decrease in total cholesterol and upper-arm fat area after an aerobic fitness program designed for persons with SCI. This particular study did not duplicate those results. Only one complication occurred during the program. One of the patients had a drop in heart rate and blood pressure after the arm crank exercise. This resolved spontaneously.

For further information, refer to: "Effects of an Exercise Program on the Rehabilitation of Patients With Spinal Cord Injury," Duran F MD; Lugo, L MD; Ramirez, L MD; Eusse, E Lic, Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, October 2001, Volume 82 , Issue 10.

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