Improved motor function in tetraplegics following neuromuscular stimulation-assisted arm ergometry.

Author: Needham-Shropshire B M; Broton J G; Cameron T L; Klose K J

Journal / Proceeding: JOURNAL OF SPINAL CORD MEDICINE, (1997 Jan) 20 (1) 49-55. Journal code: 9504452. ISSN: 1079-0268.

Abstract: The effectiveness of neuromuscular stimulation (NMS)-assisted arm ergometry for strengthening triceps brachii was evaluated in 34 cervical spinal cord injured persons. Group I (n = 12) received eight weeks of NMS-assisted ergometry. Group II (n = 11) received four weeks of NMS-assisted ergometry followed by four weeks of arm ergometry alone. Group III (N = 11) received only arm ergometry (control group). Seventeen of 24 muscles in Group I subjects had improved manual muscle test scores after eight weeks, compared with 10 of 22 Group II muscles and five of 22 Group III muscles. Including only muscles with initial scores Miami Project to Cure Paralysis.

Institute: University of Miami School of Medicine, FL, USA.

Language: English