Monitoring of spasticity and functional ability in individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury with a functional electrical stimulation cycling system.

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the integration of motor function and spasticity assessment of individuals with spinal cord injury into cycling therapy.

METHODS

Twenty-three participants with incomplete spinal cord injury performed 18 training sessions (standard deviation (SD) 14) on an instrumented tricycle combined with functional electrical stimulation. Each therapy session included a power output test to assess the participants' ability to pedal actively and a spasticity test routine that measures the legs' resistance to the pedalling motion. In addition, the required time for the therapy phases was monitored.

RESULTS

The results of the power output test showed a monthly increase in power output of 4.4 W (SD 13.7) at 30 rpm and 18.2 W (SD 23.9) at 60 rpm. The results of the spasticity assessment indicate a 12.2 W (SD 9.7) reduction in resistance at 60 rpm after the FES training for the subject group with spasticity.

CONCLUSION

In clinical use over a time-period of 2 years this combined form of therapy and motor function assessment was well accepted by participants. The active power output test and the spasticity test routine offered a proper tool to monitor participants' progress in functional rehabilitation and changes in spasticity.