None listed
Conditions
Brief summary
To compare the effectiveness of progressive resistance training and functional training versus functional training alone for increasing strength in partially-paralysed muscles in people with recent SCI. The results of this trial will have implications for the rehabilitation of people following SCI. In particular, the results will determine whether time and effort should be devoted to progressive resistance training programs or whether functional training alone will suffice.
Interventions
The target muscle group in the experimental limb will be trained according to a progressive resistance program three times a week for 12 weeks. Participants will perform forty maximal contractions in four sets of ten. The first two sets of ten exercises will involve isometric contractions and the second two sets of ten exercises will involve isokinetic contractions. Resistance will be applied through the hands of a therapist. The therapist will always ensure that the resistance is maximal and co
The target muscle group in the experimental limb will be trained according to a progressive resistance program three times a week for 12 weeks. Participants will perform forty maximal contractions in four sets of ten. The first two sets of ten exercises will involve isometric contractions and the second two sets of ten exercises will involve isokinetic contractions. Resistance will be applied through the hands of a therapist. The therapist will always ensure that the resistance is maximal and completely exhausts participants by the end of each set of ten exercises. There will be a 2-minute rest after each set of ten exercises. Emphasis will be placed on progressively increasing the resistance. Resistance applied for each contraction will be measured using a myometer held by the treating therapist. It is estimated that each treatment will take approximately 20 minutes. Weights or strengthening equipment will not be used because of the problems of ensuring maximal resistance is applied throughout range in very weak muscles that are not neurally intact. The intervention will be carried out by qualified physiotherapists and physiotherapist assistants who will be trained in how to carry out the intervention.
Sponsors
Rehabilitation Studies Unit, The University of Sydney
Study design
Allocation
Randomised controlled trial
Intervention model
Parallel
Primary purpose
Treatment
Masking
Blinded (masking used) (Outcomes Assessor)
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
All
Age
16 Years to No maximum
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
1. recent complete or incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI, as defined by the International Standards for Neurological classification of SCI) within less than one year, 2. bilateral partial paralysis in one of the target muscle groups (i.e., elbow flexors, elbow extensors, knee flexors or knee extensor muscles), 3. at least grade 3 or 4 strength in the target muscle group on both sides of the body, 4. neurological stability in the strength of the target muscle groups (i.e., not more than a 2/5 point change in Manual Muscle Test over the preceding 3 weeks according to chart records). 5. an inpatient of one of Sydney’s SCI units and are likely to remain there for the duration of their involvement in the trial approximately 13 weeks (or are returning home to the Sydney metropolitan area). 6. aged 16 years or over at the time of consent. 7. willing to participate in the trial. 8. free of any other type of neurological lesion
Exclusion criteria
1. Have any condition preventing testing or training of the target muscle group. 2. unlikely or unwilling to co-operate (e.g., serious medical condition, cognitive impairment, drug dependency, psychiatric illness, behavioural problems). 3. insufficient English to provide informed consent.
Outcome results
None listed