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Wang Y, Zhang J, Yuan J, Li Q, Zhang S, Wang C, Wang H, Wang L, Zhang B, Wang C, Sun Y, Lu X. Application of a novel nested ensemble algorithm in predicting motor function recovery in patients with traumatic cervical spinal cord injury. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17403. [PMID: 39075134 PMCID: PMC11286788 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65755-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Traumatic cervical spinal cord injury (TCSCI) often causes varying degrees of motor dysfunction, common assessed by the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI), in association with the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale. Accurate prediction of motor function recovery is extremely important for formulating effective diagnosis, therapeutic and rehabilitation programs. The aim of this study is to investigate the validity of a novel nested ensemble algorithm that uses the very early ASIA motor score (AMS) of ISNCSCI examination to predict motor function recovery 6 months after injury in TCSCI patients. This retrospective study included complete data of 315 TCSCI patients. The dataset consisting of the first AMS at ≤ 24 h post-injury and follow-up AMS at 6 months post-injury was divided into a training set (80%) and a test set (20%). The nested ensemble algorithm was established in a two-stage manner. Support Vector Classification (SVC), Adaboost, Weak-learner and Dummy were used in the first stage, and Adaboost was selected as second-stage model. The prediction results of the first stage models were uploaded into second-stage model to obtain the final prediction results. The model performance was evaluated using precision, recall, accuracy, F1 score, and confusion matrix. The nested ensemble algorithm was applied to predict motor function recovery of TCSCI, achieving an accuracy of 80.6%, a F1 score of 80.6%, and balancing sensitivity and specificity. The confusion matrix showed few false-negative rate, which has crucial practical implications for prognostic prediction of TCSCI. This novel nested ensemble algorithm, simply based on very early AMS, provides a useful tool for predicting motor function recovery 6 months after TCSCI, which is graded in gradients that progressively improve the accuracy and reliability of the prediction, demonstrating a strong potential of ensemble learning to personalize and optimize the rehabilitation and care of TCSCI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijin Wang
- North Sichuan Medical College, No. 234 Fuljiang Road, Shunqing District, Nanchong, 637100, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianjun Zhang
- North Sichuan Medical College, No. 234 Fuljiang Road, Shunqing District, Nanchong, 637100, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China
| | - Jincan Yuan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingyuan Li
- North Sichuan Medical College, No. 234 Fuljiang Road, Shunqing District, Nanchong, 637100, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiyu Zhang
- UCSI University, No. 1, Jalan UCSI, UCSI Heights, 56000, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chenfeng Wang
- Zhejiang University, No. 866 Yuhangtang Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Haibing Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China
| | - Bangke Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China
| | - Can Wang
- North Sichuan Medical College, No. 234 Fuljiang Road, Shunqing District, Nanchong, 637100, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuling Sun
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xuhua Lu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China.
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Park JM, Kim YW, Lee SJ, Shin JC. Robot-Assisted Gait Training in Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Ann Rehabil Med 2024; 48:171-191. [PMID: 38950970 PMCID: PMC11217760 DOI: 10.5535/arm.230039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation emphasizes locomotion. Robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) is widely used in clinical settings because of its benefits; however, its efficacy remains controversial. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the efficacy of RAGT in patients with SCI. We searched international and domestic databases for articles published until April 18, 2024. The meta-analysis employed a random effects model to determine the effect size as either mean difference (MD) or standardized MD (SMD). Evidence quality was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Twenty-three studies with a total of 690 participants were included in the final analysis. The overall pooled effect size for improvement in activities of daily living was 0.24, with SMD (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.04-0.43; GRADE: high) favoring RAGT over conventional rehabilitation. Muscular strength (MD, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.02-0.44; GRADE: high), walking index for SCI (MD, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.07-0.55; GRADE: moderate) and 6 min walk test distance (MD, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.14-0.63; GRADE: moderate) showed significant improvement in the robot group. Subgroup analysis revealed that subacute patients and intervention periods >2 months were more effective. This meta-analysis revealed that RAGT significantly improved activities of daily living, muscular strength, and walking abilities. Additional studies are needed to identify the optimal treatment protocol and specific patient groups for which the protocol is most effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Mi Park
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang, Korea
| | - Yong Wook Kim
- Department and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Su Ji Lee
- Department and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Cheol Shin
- Department and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Khande CK, Verma V, Regmi A, Ifthekar S, Sudhakar PV, Sethy SS, Kandwal P, Sarkar B. Effect on functional outcome of robotic assisted rehabilitation versus conventional rehabilitation in patients with complete spinal cord injury: a prospective comparative study. Spinal Cord 2024; 62:228-236. [PMID: 38491302 DOI: 10.1038/s41393-024-00970-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Prospective Comparative Study. OBJECTIVE This study aims to compare the functional outcomes of Robotic-assisted rehabilitation by Lokomat system Vs. Conventional rehabilitation in participants with Dorsolumbar complete spinal cord injury (SCI). SETTING University level teaching hospital in a hilly state of northern India. METHODS 15 participants with Dorsolumbar SCI with ASIA A neurology were allocated to robotic rehabilitation and 15 participants to conventional rehabilitation after an operative procedure. Pre-and Post-rehabilitation parameters were noted in terms of ASIA Neurology, Motor and sensory function scores, WISCI II score (Walking Index in SCI score), LEMS (Lower Extremity Motor Score), SCI M III score (Spinal Cord Independence Measure III score), AO Spine PROST (AO Patient Reported Outcome Spine Trauma), McGill QOL score (Mc Gill Quality of Life score), VAS score (Visual Analogue Scale) for pain and Modified Ashworth scale for spasticity in lower limbs. RESULTS On comparing robotic group with conventional group there was a statistically significant improvement in Robotic-assisted rehabilitation group in terms of Motor score (p = 0.034), WISCI II score (p = 0.0001), SCIM III score (p = 0.0001), AO PROST score (p = 0.0001), Mc GILL QOL score (p = 0.0001), Max velocity (p = 0.0001) and Step length (p = 0.0001). Whereas LEMS score (p = 0.052), ASIA neurology (p = 0.264 (ASIA A); 1.000 (ASIA B); 0.053 (ASIA C)), VAS score (p = 0.099), Sensory score (p = 0.422) and Modified Ashworth scale for spasticity (p = 0.136) were not statically significant when comparing between two groups. CONCLUSION Robot-assisted rehabilitation is superior than conventional rehabilitation in people living with SCI with AIS A neurology. Differences in the patient group, type of a lesion its and severity, duration from onset to initiation of rehabilitation, devices employed, administration of the therapies and regulation of interventions are likely the cause of variations in the findings seen in the literature for robotic assisted training. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vishal Verma
- Department of Orthopedics, AIIMS, Rishikesh, 249203, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Anil Regmi
- Department of Orthopedics, AIIMS, Rishikesh, 249203, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Syed Ifthekar
- Department of Orthopedics, AIIMS, Rishikesh, 249203, Uttarakhand, India
| | | | | | - Pankaj Kandwal
- Department of Orthopedics, AIIMS, Rishikesh, 249203, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Bhaskar Sarkar
- Department of Trauma Surgery, AIIMS, Rishikesh, 249203, Uttarakhand, India.
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Morgan DW, Stevens SL. Use of water- and land-based gait training to improve walking capacity in adults with complete spinal cord injury: A pilot study. J Spinal Cord Med 2024; 47:404-411. [PMID: 35796664 PMCID: PMC11044748 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2022.2088507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Little is known regarding the extent to which mobility can be improved using gait-based therapies in individuals with complete spinal cord injury (cSCI). Against this backdrop, the purpose of our study was to document changes in walking capacity following an extended period of underwater treadmill training (UTT) and supplemental overground walk training (OWT) in persons with cSCI. DESIGN Longitudinal design. SETTING University research center. PARTICIPANTS Five adults (mean age = 41.2 ± 5.9 years) with motor-complete (AIS A), chronic (mean years post-injury = 3.2 ± 1.6 years) cSCI who had not received epidural spinal cord stimulation (eSCS). INTERVENTION Participants underwent one year of UTT (3 walking bouts per day; 2-3 days per week). Once independent stepping activity in the water was observed, OWT, as tolerated, was performed prior to UTT. OUTCOME MEASURE Walking capacity was evaluated using the Walking Index for Spinal Cord Injury (WISCI-II) prior to UTT (Time 1: T1), six months after the start of UTT (Time 2: T2), and following completion of UTT (Time 3: T3). RESULTS Non-parametric analyses revealed a significant time effect (P < .05) for WISCI-II. Pre-planned comparisons revealed no difference in WISCI-II levels measured at T1 (0.20 ± 0.45) and T2 (4.80 ± 4.55) and at T2 (4.80 ± 4.55) and T3 (8.40 ± 1.34). However, the WISCI-II level obtained at T3 (8.40 ± 1.34) was significantly higher compared to the T1 value. CONCLUSION Our preliminary findings demonstrate that in the absence of eSCS, combined UTT and supplemental OWT can improve functional walking capacity in adults with cSCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Don W. Morgan
- Department of Health and Human Performance, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN, USA
| | - Sandra L. Stevens
- Department of Health and Human Performance, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN, USA
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Cumplido-Trasmonte C, Barquín-Santos E, Gor-García-Fogeda MD, Plaza-Flores A, García-Varela D, Ibáñez-Herrán L, Alted-González C, Díaz-Valles P, López-Pascua C, Castrillo-Calvillo A, Molina-Rueda F, Fernández R, García-Armada E. Modularity Implications of an Overground Exoskeleton on Plantar Pressures, Strength, and Spasticity in Persons with Acquired Brain Injury. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 24:1435. [PMID: 38474971 DOI: 10.3390/s24051435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
This study explored the effects of a modular overground exoskeleton on plantar pressure distribution in healthy individuals and individuals with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). The research involved 21 participants, including ABI patients and healthy controls, who used a unique exoskeleton with adaptable modular configurations. The primary objective was to assess how these configurations, along with factors such as muscle strength and spasticity, influenced plantar pressure distribution. The results revealed significant differences in plantar pressures among participants, strongly influenced by the exoskeleton's modularity. Notably, significant distinctions were found between ABI patients and healthy individuals. Configurations with two modules led to increased pressure in the heel and central metatarsus regions, whereas configurations with four modules exhibited higher pressures in the metatarsus and hallux regions. Future research should focus on refining and customizing rehabilitation technologies to meet the diverse needs of ABI patients, enhancing their potential for functional recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Cumplido-Trasmonte
- International Doctoral School, Rey Juan Carlos University, 28922 Madrid, Spain
- Marsi Bionics SL, 28521 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - María Dolores Gor-García-Fogeda
- Marsi Bionics SL, 28521 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Rey Juan Carlos University, 28922 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Paola Díaz-Valles
- Spanish National Reference Centre for Brain Injury (CEADAC), 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Francisco Molina-Rueda
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Rey Juan Carlos University, 28922 Madrid, Spain
| | - Roemi Fernández
- Centre for Automation and Robotics (CAR), CSIC-UPM, Ctra. Campo Real km 0.2-La Poveda-Arganda del Rey, 28500 Madrid, Spain
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Huang L, Huang HL, Dang XW, Wang YJ. Effect of Body Weight Support Training on Lower Extremity Motor Function in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2024; 103:149-157. [PMID: 37535636 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000002320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aims of the study are to systematically evaluate the effect of body weight support training on lower extremity motor function(s) in patients with spinal cord injury and to compare the effect differences among three body weight support training methods. DESIGN PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI, CBM, China Scientific Journal, and Wan Fang databases were searched until December 31, 2022. Meta-analysis and network meta-analysis were conducted using RevMan 5.4 and ADDIS 1.16.8. RESULTS Nineteen randomized controlled trials involving 864 patients were included. The meta-analysis showed that body weight support training could improve lower extremity motor scores according to the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury standard (mean difference = 6.38, 95% confidence interval = 3.96-8.80, P < 0.05), walking speed (standard mean difference = 0.77, 95% confidence interval = 0.52-1.02, P < 0.05), and modified Barthel Index scores (mean difference = 9.85, 95% confidence interval = 8.39-11.30, P < 0.05). The network meta-analysis showed no significant difference among the three body weight support training methods for improving lower extremity motor scores in patients with spinal cord injury. The best probability ranking of the body weight support training methods for improving lower extremity motor scores in patients with spinal cord injury was robot-assisted gait training ( P = 0.60), followed by aquatic exercise ( P = 0.21) and body weight support training ( P = 0.19). CONCLUSIONS Body weight support training can improve lower extremity motor score in patients with spinal cord injury. No significant difference was observed among the three body weight support training methods, but robot-assisted gait training may produce the best effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Huang
- From the College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changqing District, Jinan City, China
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Bowersock CD, Pisolkar T, Omofuma I, Luna T, Khan M, Santamaria V, Stein J, Agrawal S, Harkema SJ, Rejc E. Robotic upright stand trainer (RobUST) and postural control in individuals with spinal cord injury. J Spinal Cord Med 2023; 46:889-899. [PMID: 35532324 PMCID: PMC10653750 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2022.2069532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT/OBJECTIVE Assessed feasibility and potential effectiveness of using a novel robotic upright stand trainer (RobUST) to deliver postural perturbations or provide assistance-as-needed at the trunk while individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) performed stable standing and self-initiated trunk movements. These tasks were assessed with research participants' hands on handlebars for self-balance assistance (hands on) and with hands off (free hands). DESIGN Proof of concept study. PARTICIPANTS Four individuals with motor complete (n = 3) or incomplete (n = 1) SCI who were not able to achieve independent standing and presented a neurological lesion level ranging from cervical 4 to thoracic 2. OUTCOME MEASURES Ground reaction forces, trunk displacement, and electromyography activity of trunk and lower limb muscles. RESULTS Research participants received continuous pelvic assistance via RobUST, and manual trainer assistance at the knees to maintain standing. Participants were able to attempt all tasks. Free hands trunk perturbations resulted in greater load bearing-related sensory information (73% ipsilateral vertical loading), trunk displacement (57%), and muscle activation compared to hands on. Similarly, free hands stable standing with RobUST assistance-as-needed resulted in 8.5% larger bodyweight bearing, 112% larger trunk movement velocity, and higher trunk muscles activation compared to standing with hands on. Self-initiated trunk movements controlled by hands on showed 116% greater trunk displacement, 10% greater vertical ground reaction force, and greater ankle muscle activation compared to free hands. CONCLUSION RobUST established a safe and challenging standing environment for individuals with SCI and has the potential to improve training paradigms and assessments of standing postural control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Collin D. Bowersock
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Tanvi Pisolkar
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Isirame Omofuma
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Tatiana Luna
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Moiz Khan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Victor Santamaria
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Joel Stein
- Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sunil Agrawal
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Susan J. Harkema
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
- Frazier Rehabilitation Institute, University of Louisville Health, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Enrico Rejc
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
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Schaufler D, Manthou ME, Theotokis P, Rink-Notzon S, Angelov DN. Effects of Whole-Body Vibration and Manually Assisted Locomotor Therapy on Neurotrophin-3 Expression and Microglia/Macrophage Mobilization Following Thoracic Spinal Cord Injury in Rats. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:3238-3254. [PMID: 37185735 PMCID: PMC10137282 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45040211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglial cells play an important role in neuroinflammation and secondary damages after spinal cord injury (SCI). Progressive microglia/macrophage inflammation along the entire spinal axis follows SCI, and various factors may determine the microglial activation profile. Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) is known to control the survival of neurons, the function of synapses, and the release of neurotransmitters, while also stimulating axon plasticity and growth. We examined the effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) and forms of assisted locomotor therapy, such as passive flexion-extension (PFE) therapy, at the neuronal level after SCI, with a focus on changes in NT-3 expression and on microglia/macrophage reaction, as they play a major role in the reconstitution of CNS integrity after injury and they may critically account for the observed structural and functional benefits of physical therapy. More specifically, the WBV therapy resulted in the best overall functional recovery when initiated at day 14, while inducing a decrease in Iba1 and the highest increase in NT-3. Therefore, the WBV therapy at the 14th day appeared to be superior to the PFE therapy in terms of recovery. Functional deficits and subsequent rehabilitation depend heavily upon the inflammatory processes occurring caudally to the injury site; thus, we propose that increased expression of NT-3, especially in the dorsal horn, could potentially be the mediator of this favorable outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Schaufler
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Lung Cancer Group Cologne, University Hospital Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
- Anatomical Institute II, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Maria Eleni Manthou
- Anatomical Institute II, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Aristotle University Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Paschalis Theotokis
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Aristotle University Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology and Neuroimmunology, Second Department of Neurology, AHEPA University Hospital, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Svenja Rink-Notzon
- Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, School of Dental and Oral Medicine, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Doychin N Angelov
- Anatomical Institute II, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
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Gil-Agudo Á, Megía-García Á, Pons JL, Sinovas-Alonso I, Comino-Suárez N, Lozano-Berrio V, Del-Ama AJ. Exoskeleton-based training improves walking independence in incomplete spinal cord injury patients: results from a randomized controlled trial. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2023; 20:36. [PMID: 36964574 PMCID: PMC10039497 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-023-01158-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, ambulatory lower limb exoskeletons are being gradually introduced into the clinical practice to complement walking rehabilitation programs. However, the clinical evidence of the outcomes attained with these devices is still limited and nonconclusive. Furthermore, the user-to-robot adaptation mechanisms responsible for functional improvement are still not adequately unveiled. This study aimed to (1) assess the safety and feasibility of using the HANK exoskeleton for walking rehabilitation, and (2) investigate the effects on walking function after a training program with it. METHODS A randomized controlled trial was conducted including a cohort of 23 patients with less than 1 year since injury, neurological level of injury (C2-L4) and severity (American Spinal Cord Injury Association Impairment Scale [AIS] C or D). The intervention was comprised of 15 one-hour gait training sessions with lower limb exoskeleton HANK. Safety was assessed through monitoring of adverse events, and pain and fatigue through a Visual Analogue Scale. LEMS, WISCI-II, and SCIM-III scales were assessed, along with the 10MWT, 6MWT, and the TUG walking tests (see text for acronyms). RESULTS No major adverse events were reported. Participants in the intervention group (IG) reported 1.8 cm (SD 1.0) for pain and 3.8 (SD 1.7) for fatigue using the VAS. Statistically significant differences were observed for the WISCI-II for both the "group" factor (F = 16.75, p < 0.001) and "group-time" interactions (F = 8.87; p < 0.01). A post-hoc analysis revealed a statistically significant increase of 3.54 points (SD 2.65, p < 0.0001) after intervention for the IG but not in the CG (0.7 points, SD 1.49, p = 0.285). No statistical differences were observed between groups for the remaining variables. CONCLUSIONS The use of HANK exoskeleton in clinical settings is safe and well-tolerated by the patients. Patients receiving treatment with the exoskeleton improved their walking independence as measured by the WISCI-II after the treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángel Gil-Agudo
- Biomechanics and Technical Aids Department, National Hospital for Paraplegics, SESCAM, Finca la Peraleda s/n, 45071, Toledo, Spain.
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, National Hospital for Paraplegics, SESCAM, Toledo, Spain.
- Neurorehabilitation and Biomechanics Unit (HNP-SESCAM), Associate Unit CSIC, Toledo, Spain.
| | - Álvaro Megía-García
- Biomechanics and Technical Aids Department, National Hospital for Paraplegics, SESCAM, Finca la Peraleda s/n, 45071, Toledo, Spain
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, National Hospital for Paraplegics, SESCAM, Toledo, Spain
- Neurorehabilitation and Biomechanics Unit (HNP-SESCAM), Associate Unit CSIC, Toledo, Spain
- Toledo Physiotherapy Research Group (GIFTO), Faculty of Physiotherapy and Nursing, Castilla La Mancha University, Toledo, Spain
| | - José Luis Pons
- Legs and Walking Lab, Shirley Ryan Ability Laboratory (Formerly Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago), Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Neural Rehabilitation Group, Cajal Institute, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Sinovas-Alonso
- Biomechanics and Technical Aids Department, National Hospital for Paraplegics, SESCAM, Finca la Peraleda s/n, 45071, Toledo, Spain
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, National Hospital for Paraplegics, SESCAM, Toledo, Spain
- Neurorehabilitation and Biomechanics Unit (HNP-SESCAM), Associate Unit CSIC, Toledo, Spain
| | - Natalia Comino-Suárez
- Toledo Physiotherapy Research Group (GIFTO), Faculty of Physiotherapy and Nursing, Castilla La Mancha University, Toledo, Spain
| | - Vicente Lozano-Berrio
- Biomechanics and Technical Aids Department, National Hospital for Paraplegics, SESCAM, Finca la Peraleda s/n, 45071, Toledo, Spain
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, National Hospital for Paraplegics, SESCAM, Toledo, Spain
- Neurorehabilitation and Biomechanics Unit (HNP-SESCAM), Associate Unit CSIC, Toledo, Spain
| | - Antonio J Del-Ama
- Biomechanics and Technical Aids Department, National Hospital for Paraplegics, SESCAM, Finca la Peraleda s/n, 45071, Toledo, Spain
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, National Hospital for Paraplegics, SESCAM, Toledo, Spain
- Neurorehabilitation and Biomechanics Unit (HNP-SESCAM), Associate Unit CSIC, Toledo, Spain
- Rey Juan Carlos University, Electronic Technology Area, Móstoles, Spain
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Chen J, Neo EJR, Tan YL. Complete spinal cord injury from postoperative seroma following scoliosis surgery: A case report with favorable ambulatory outcomes after comprehensive rehabilitation. J Spinal Cord Med 2023; 46:337-340. [PMID: 35981136 PMCID: PMC9987742 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2022.2108661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Postoperative seroma is a known complication following spine deformity surgery. However, complete spinal cord injury (SCI) due to postoperative seroma is rare. Rehabilitation strategies and outcomes of SCI associated with postoperative seroma have been inadequately described. FINDINGS A 15-year-old female experienced inadvertent durotomy during pinal deformity correction surgery for idiopathic adolescent scoliosis. Despite immediate decompressive laminectomy, she developed complete loss of motor and sensory function with neurological level of injury at T10 immediately following the surgery. Urgent magnetic resonance imaging revealed cord compression due to seroma. Decompressive surgery was performed 48 h later and timely intensive rehabilitation was provided for 3 months, which included the use of robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) to maximize neurological recovery. She demonstrated impressive improvement from grade A to D on the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale and regained functional ambulation over the 3-month period. We describe a comprehensive rehabilitation program to manage SCI associated with postoperative seroma, entailing the use of a robotic gait device for locomotor training. The progression of the patient's neurological status and functional outcomes was documented accordingly. CONCLUSION/CLINICAL RELEVANCE Complete SCI due to seroma, a surgical complication of corrective scoliosis surgery, is rare. However, prompt postoperative examination should be performed routinely in anticipation of neurological deterioration. Early rehabilitation comprising of gait re-training and the use of RAGT might enhance the lower-limb motor strength and functional recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Yeow Leng Tan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
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11
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Neuromodulation with transcutaneous spinal stimulation reveals different groups of motor profiles during robot-guided stepping in humans with incomplete spinal cord injury. Exp Brain Res 2023; 241:365-382. [PMID: 36534141 PMCID: PMC10278039 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-022-06521-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Neuromodulation via spinal stimulation has been investigated for improving motor function and reducing spasticity after spinal cord injury (SCI) in humans. Despite the reported heterogeneity of outcomes, few investigations have attempted to discern commonalities among individual responses to neuromodulation, especially the impact of stimulation frequencies. Here, we examined how exposure to continuous lumbosacral transcutaneous spinal stimulation (TSS) across a range of frequencies affects robotic torques and EMG patterns during stepping in a robotic gait orthosis on a motorized treadmill. We studied nine chronic motor-incomplete SCI individuals (8/1 AIS-C/D, 8 men) during robot-guided stepping with body-weight support without and with TSS applied at random frequencies between 1 and up to 100 Hz at a constant, individually selected stimulation intensity below the common motor threshold for posterior root reflexes. The hip and knee robotic torques needed to maintain the predefined stepping trajectory and EMG in eight bilateral leg muscles were recorded. We calculated the standardized mean difference between the stimulation conditions grouped into frequency bins and the no stimulation condition to determine changes in the normalized torques and the average EMG envelopes. We found heterogeneous changes in robotic torques across individuals. Agglomerative clustering of robotic torques identified four groups wherein the patterns of changes differed in magnitude and direction depending mainly on the stimulation frequency and stance/swing phase. On one end of the spectrum, the changes in robotic torques were greater with increasing stimulation frequencies (four participants), which coincided with a decrease in EMG, mainly due to the reduction of clonogenic motor output in the lower leg muscles. On the other end, we found an inverted u-shape change in torque over the mid-frequency range along with an increase in EMG, reflecting the augmentation of gait-related physiological (two participants) or pathophysiological (one participant) output. We conclude that TSS during robot-guided stepping reveals different frequency-dependent motor profiles among individuals with chronic motor incomplete SCI. This suggests the need for a better understanding and characterization of motor control profiles in SCI when applying TSS as a therapeutic intervention for improving gait.
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12
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Gouveia D, Cardoso A, Carvalho C, Almeida A, Gamboa Ó, Ferreira A, Martins Â. Approach to Small Animal Neurorehabilitation by Locomotor Training: An Update. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243582. [PMID: 36552502 PMCID: PMC9774773 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurorehabilitation has a wide range of therapies to achieve neural regeneration, reorganization, and repair (e.g., axon regeneration, remyelination, and restoration of spinal circuits and networks) to achieve ambulation for dogs and cats, especially for grade 1 (modified Frankel scale) with signs of spinal shock or grade 0 (deep pain negative), similar to humans classified with ASIA A lesions. This review aims to explain what locomotor training is, its importance, its feasibility within a clinical setting, and some possible protocols for motor recovery, achieving ambulation with coordinated and modulated movements. In addition, it cites some of the primary key points that must be present in the daily lives of veterinarians or rehabilitation nurses. These can be the guidelines to improve this exciting exercise necessary to achieve ambulation with quality of life. However, more research is essential in the future years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Débora Gouveia
- Arrábida Veterinary Hospital—Arrábida Animal Rehabilitation Center, 2925-538 Setubal, Portugal
- Superior School of Health, Protection and Animal Welfare, Polytechnic Institute of Lusophony, Campo Grande, 1950-396 Lisboa, Portugal
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusófona University, Campo Grande, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Ana Cardoso
- Arrábida Veterinary Hospital—Arrábida Animal Rehabilitation Center, 2925-538 Setubal, Portugal
| | - Carla Carvalho
- Arrábida Veterinary Hospital—Arrábida Animal Rehabilitation Center, 2925-538 Setubal, Portugal
| | - António Almeida
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Óscar Gamboa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - António Ferreira
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
- CIISA—Centro Interdisciplinar-Investigaçāo em Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Av. Universi dade Técnica de Lisboa, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ângela Martins
- Arrábida Veterinary Hospital—Arrábida Animal Rehabilitation Center, 2925-538 Setubal, Portugal
- Superior School of Health, Protection and Animal Welfare, Polytechnic Institute of Lusophony, Campo Grande, 1950-396 Lisboa, Portugal
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusófona University, Campo Grande, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
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13
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Hofer AS, Scheuber MI, Sartori AM, Good N, Stalder SA, Hammer N, Fricke K, Schalbetter SM, Engmann AK, Weber RZ, Rust R, Schneider MP, Russi N, Favre G, Schwab ME. Stimulation of the cuneiform nucleus enables training and boosts recovery after spinal cord injury. Brain 2022; 145:3681-3697. [PMID: 35583160 PMCID: PMC9586551 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awac184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe spinal cord injuries result in permanent paraparesis in spite of the frequent sparing of small portions of white matter. Spared fibre tracts are often incapable of maintaining and modulating the activity of lower spinal motor centres. Effects of rehabilitative training thus remain limited. Here, we activated spared descending brainstem fibres by electrical deep brain stimulation of the cuneiform nucleus of the mesencephalic locomotor region, the main control centre for locomotion in the brainstem, in adult female Lewis rats. We show that deep brain stimulation of the cuneiform nucleus enhances the weak remaining motor drive in highly paraparetic rats with severe, incomplete spinal cord injuries and enables high-intensity locomotor training. Stimulation of the cuneiform nucleus during rehabilitative aquatraining after subchronic (n = 8 stimulated versus n = 7 unstimulated versus n = 7 untrained rats) and chronic (n = 14 stimulated versus n = 9 unstimulated versus n = 9 untrained rats) spinal cord injury re-established substantial locomotion and improved long-term recovery of motor function. We additionally identified a safety window of stimulation parameters ensuring context-specific locomotor control in intact rats (n = 18) and illustrate the importance of timing of treatment initiation after spinal cord injury (n = 14). This study highlights stimulation of the cuneiform nucleus as a highly promising therapeutic strategy to enhance motor recovery after subchronic and chronic incomplete spinal cord injury with direct clinical applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Sophie Hofer
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Myriam I Scheuber
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andrea M Sartori
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Good
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stephanie A Stalder
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicole Hammer
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kai Fricke
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sina M Schalbetter
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anne K Engmann
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rebecca Z Weber
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ruslan Rust
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marc P Schneider
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Natalie Russi
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Giacomin Favre
- Department of Economics, University of Zurich, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin E Schwab
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
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14
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Analysis of temperaturepain sensitivity in patients with consequences of the cervical spinal cord injury. ACTA BIOMEDICA SCIENTIFICA 2022. [DOI: 10.29413/abs.2022-7.3.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. The standard neurological assessment in patients with long-term consequences of spine-and-spinal cord injury and severe neurological deficit does not allow to accurately identify changes in sensitivity that determine the level, degree and nature of spinal cord injury, as well as to evaluate the minimal dynamics of these disorders with different treatment options. As a result, an objective instrumental assessment of the sensory sphere in the long-term period of spinal cord injury has not lost its relevance.The aim. To conduct an instrumental study of the temperature-pain sensitivity condition in patients with partial gross damage to the cervical spinal cord in the long-term period of the disease (type B on the ASIA scale).Methods. We examined 23 patients with consequences of vertebral fractures of the cervical spine in the late period of traumatic spinal cord disease, Grade B on the ASIA scale ASIA. The clinical analysis of sensitive disorders was performed according to ISNCSCI and ASIA scales. While studying the temperature-pain sensitivity the threshold of thermal sensitivity and the threshold of pain from hot were determined in СIV–SI dermatomes on the right and on the left using an electricesthesiometer.Results. The examined patients had hypesthesia of heat and pain sensitivity, hyperesthesia of pain sensitivity, thermoanesthesia and thermoanalgesia. The degree of changes in the temperature-pain sensitivity depended on the topographic localization of dermatomes. The more distally the study area was located from the level of damage, the more pronounced the disorders were. In 30.4 % of patients, the pain sensitivity from hot in the chain of dermatomes from CIV to SI was preserved on at least one side. The combination of thermoanesthesia with thermoanalgesia was observed in 69.6 % of cases in dermatomes with ThVII and distally.Conclusions. The instrumentally registered level of the temperature-pain sensitivity disorder did not correspond to clinically determined localization of sensory disorders. The range of discrepancy ranged from 2 to 12 dermatomes, with defining the sensitivity subclinical deficit over the area of clinical sensory disorders.
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15
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Novel Noninvasive Spinal Neuromodulation Strategy Facilitates Recovery of Stepping after Motor Complete Paraplegia. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11133670. [PMID: 35806954 PMCID: PMC9267673 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11133670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been suggested that neuroplasticity-promoting neuromodulation can restore sensory-motor pathways after spinal cord injury (SCI), reactivating the dormant locomotor neuronal circuitry. We introduce a neuro-rehabilitative approach that leverages locomotor training with multi-segmental spinal cord transcutaneous electrical stimulation (scTS). We hypothesized that scTS neuromodulates spinal networks, complementing the neuroplastic effects of locomotor training, result in a functional progression toward recovery of locomotion. We conducted a case-study to test this approach on a 27-year-old male classified as AIS A with chronic SCI. The training regimen included task-driven non-weight-bearing training (1 month) followed by weight-bearing training (2 months). Training was paired with multi-level continuous and phase-dependent scTS targeting function-specific motor pools. Results suggest a convergence of cross-lesional networks, improving kinematics during voluntary non-weight-bearing locomotor-like stepping. After weight-bearing training, coordination during stepping improved, suggesting an important role of afferent feedback in further improvement of voluntary control and reorganization of the sensory-motor brain-spinal connectome.
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16
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Hayes SC, White M, Wilcox CRJ, White HSF, Vanicek N. Biomechanical differences between able-bodied and spinal cord injured individuals walking in an overground robotic exoskeleton. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262915. [PMID: 35085340 PMCID: PMC8794144 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Robotic assisted gait training (RAGT) uses a powered exoskeleton to support an individual’s body and move their limbs, with the aim of activating latent, pre-existing movement patterns stored in the lower spinal cord called central pattern generators (CPGs) to facilitate stepping. The parameters that directly stimulate the stepping CPGs (hip extension and ipsilateral foot unloading) should be targeted to maximise the rehabilitation benefits of these devices. Aim To compare the biomechanical profiles of individuals with a spinal cord injury (SCI) and able-bodied individuals inside the ReWalkTM powered exoskeleton and to contrast the users’ profiles with the exoskeleton. Methods Eight able-bodied and four SCI individuals donned a ReWalkTM and walked along a 12-meter walkway, using elbow crutches. Whole-body kinematics of the users and the ReWalkTM were captured, along with GRF and temporal-spatial characteristics. Discreet kinematic values were analysed using a Kruskall-Wallis H and Dunn’s post-hoc analysis. Upper-body differences, GRF and temporal-spatial characteristics were analysed using a Mann-Whitney U test (P<0.05). Results Walking speed ranged from 0.32–0.39m/s. Hip abduction, peak knee flexion and ankle dorsiflexion for both the SCI and able-bodied groups presented with significant differences to the ReWalkTM. The able-bodied group presented significant differences to the ReWalkTM for all kinematic variables except frontal plane hip ROM (P = 0.093,δ = -0.56). Sagittal plane pelvic and trunk ROM were significantly greater in the SCI vs. able-bodied (P = 0.004,δ = -1; P = 0.008,δ = -0.94, respectively). Posterior braking force was significantly greater in the SCI group (P = 0.004, δ = -1). Discussion The different trunk movements used by the SCI group and the capacity for the users’ joint angles to exceed those of the device suggest that biomechanical profiles varied according to the user group. However, upright stepping with the ReWalkTM device delivered the appropriate afferent stimulus to activate CPGs as there were no differences in key biomechanical parameters between the two user groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Clive Hayes
- Department of Sport Health and Exercise Sciences, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew White
- Physio Function, Long Buckby, Northamptonshire, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Natalie Vanicek
- Department of Sport Health and Exercise Sciences, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Boerger TF, Hyngstrom AS, Furlan JC, Kalsi-Ryan S, Curt A, Kwon BK, Kurpad SN, Fehlings MG, Harrop JS, Aarabi B, Rahimi-Movaghar V, Guest JD, Wilson JR, Davies BM, Kotter MRN, Koljonen PA. Developing Peri-Operative Rehabilitation in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy [AO Spine RECODE-DCM Research Priority Number 6]: An Unexplored Opportunity? Global Spine J 2022; 12:97S-108S. [PMID: 35174735 PMCID: PMC8859699 DOI: 10.1177/21925682211050925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Narrative review. OBJECTIVE Degenerative cervical myelopathy is one of the most frequent impairments of the spinal cord encountered internationally in adults. Currently, surgical decompression is the recommended treatment for people with DCM (PwCM) presenting with moderate to severe symptoms or neurological deficits. However, despite surgical intervention, not all patients make a complete recovery due to the irreversible tissue damage within the spinal cord. The objective of this review is to describe the state and gaps in the current literature on rehabilitation for PwCM and possible innovative rehabilitation strategies. METHODS Literature search. RESULTS In other neurological disorders such as stroke and acute traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI), timely and strategic rehabilitation has been shown to be indispensable for maximizing functional outcomes, and it is imperative that appropriate perioperative rehabilitative interventions accompany surgical approaches in order to enable the best outcomes. In this review, the current state of knowledge regarding rehabilitation for PwCM is described. Additionally, various therapies that have shown to improve outcomes in comparable neurological conditions such as stroke and SCI which may be translated to DCM will be reviewed. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that locomotor training and arm/hand therapy may benefit PwCM. Further, we conclude that body weight support, robotic assistance, and virtual/augmented reality therapies may be beneficial therapeutic analogs to locomotor and hand therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy F. Boerger
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | | | - Julio C. Furlan
- KITE Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sukhvinder Kalsi-Ryan
- KITE Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Armin Curt
- University Spine Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Brian K. Kwon
- Department of Orthopedics, Vancouver Spine Surgery Institute, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Shekar N. Kurpad
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Michael G. Fehlings
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - James S. Harrop
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Bizhan Aarabi
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Vafa Rahimi-Movaghar
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - James D. Guest
- Department of Neurosurgery and The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jefferson R. Wilson
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Paul A. Koljonen
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Abe H, Kadowaki K, Tsujimoto N, Okanuka T. A Narrative Review of Alternate Gait Training Using Knee-ankle-foot Orthosis in Stroke Patients with Severe Hemiparesis. Phys Ther Res 2022; 24:195-203. [PMID: 35036252 DOI: 10.1298/ptr.r0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Impairments resulting from stroke lead to persistent difficulties with walking. Subsequently, an improved walking ability is one of the highest priorities for people living with stroke. The degree to which gait can be restored after a stroke is related to both the initial impairment in walking ability and the severity of paresis of the lower extremities. However, there are some patients with severe motor paralysis and a markedly disrupted corticospinal tract who regain their gait function. Recently, several case reports have described the recovery of gait function in stroke patients with severe hemiplegia by providing alternate gait training. Multiple studies have demonstrated that gait training can induce "locomotor-like" coordinated muscle activity of paralyzed lower limbs in people with spinal cord injury. In the present review, we discuss the neural mechanisms of gait, and then we review case reports on the restoration of gait function in stroke patients with severe hemiplegia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Abe
- Fukushima Medical University School of Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Kei Kadowaki
- Department of Rehabilitation, Osaki Citizen General Hospital, Japan
| | - Naohide Tsujimoto
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Nishiyamato Rehabilitation Hospital, Japan
| | - Toru Okanuka
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Kohnan Hospital, Japan
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19
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Kerkman JN, Zandvoort CS, Daffertshofer A, Dominici N. Body Weight Control Is a Key Element of Motor Control for Toddlers' Walking. FRONTIERS IN NETWORK PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 2:844607. [PMID: 36926099 PMCID: PMC10013000 DOI: 10.3389/fnetp.2022.844607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
New-borns can step when supported for about 70-80% of their own body weight. Gravity-related sensorimotor information might be an important factor in developing the ability to walk independently. We explored how body weight support alters motor control in toddlers during the first independent steps and in toddlers with about half a year of walking experience. Sixteen different typically developing children were assessed during (un)supported walking on a running treadmill. Electromyography of 18-24 bilateral leg and back muscles and vertical ground reaction forces were recorded. Strides were grouped into four levels of body weight support ranging from no (<10%), low (10-35%), medium (35-55%), and high (55-95%) support. We constructed muscle synergies and muscle networks and assessed differences between levels of support and between groups. In both groups, muscle activities could be described by four synergies. As expected, the mean activity decreased with body weight support around foot strikes. The younger first-steps group showed changes in the temporal pattern of the synergies when supported for more than 35% of their body weight. In this group, the muscle network was dense with several interlimb connections. Apparently, the ability to process gravity-related information is not fully developed at the onset of independent walking causing motor control to be fairly disperse. Synergy-specific sensitivity for unloading implies distinct neural mechanisms underlying (the emergence of) these synergies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer N Kerkman
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Science Institute (AMS) and Institute for Brain and Behaviour Amsterdam (iBBA), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Coen S Zandvoort
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Science Institute (AMS) and Institute for Brain and Behaviour Amsterdam (iBBA), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Andreas Daffertshofer
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Science Institute (AMS) and Institute for Brain and Behaviour Amsterdam (iBBA), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Nadia Dominici
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Science Institute (AMS) and Institute for Brain and Behaviour Amsterdam (iBBA), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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20
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Feldman AG, Levin MF, Garofolini A, Piscitelli D, Zhang L. Central pattern generator and human locomotion in the context of referent control of motor actions. Clin Neurophysiol 2021; 132:2870-2889. [PMID: 34628342 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2021.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Unperturbed human locomotion presumably results from feedforward shifts in stable body equilibrium in the environment, thus avoiding falling and subsequent catching considered in alternative theories of locomotion. Such shifts are achieved by relocation of the referent body configuration at which multiple muscle recruitment begins. Rather than being directly specified by a central pattern generator, multiple muscles are activated depending on the extent to which the body is deflected from the referent, threshold body configuration, as confirmed in previous studies. Based on the referent control theory of action and perception, solutions to classical problems in motor control are offered, including the previously unresolved problem of the integration of central and reflex influences on motoneurons and the problem of how posture and movement are related. The speed of locomotion depends on the rate of shifts in the referent body configuration. The transition from walking to running results from increasing the rate of referent shifts. It is emphasised that there is a certain hierarchy between reciprocal and co-activation of agonist and antagonist muscles during locomotion and other motor actions, which is also essential for the understanding of how locomotor speed is regulated. The analysis opens a new avenue in neurophysiological approaches to human locomotion with clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anatol G Feldman
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Montreal, 2900 Edouard Montpetit Blvd, Montreal, Quebec H3T 1J4, Canada.
| | - Mindy F Levin
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, 3654 Promenade Sir-William-Osler, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y5, Canada
| | - Alessandro Garofolini
- Institute for Health and Sport (IHES), Victoria University, PO Box 14428, Melbourne, VIC 8001, Australia
| | - Daniele Piscitelli
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, 3654 Promenade Sir-William-Osler, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y5, Canada
| | - Lei Zhang
- Institut für Neuroinformatik, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Universitätsstraße 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany
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21
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Randelman M, Zholudeva LV, Vinit S, Lane MA. Respiratory Training and Plasticity After Cervical Spinal Cord Injury. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:700821. [PMID: 34621156 PMCID: PMC8490715 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.700821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
While spinal cord injuries (SCIs) result in a vast array of functional deficits, many of which are life threatening, the majority of SCIs are anatomically incomplete. Spared neural pathways contribute to functional and anatomical neuroplasticity that can occur spontaneously, or can be harnessed using rehabilitative, electrophysiological, or pharmacological strategies. With a focus on respiratory networks that are affected by cervical level SCI, the present review summarizes how non-invasive respiratory treatments can be used to harness this neuroplastic potential and enhance long-term recovery. Specific attention is given to "respiratory training" strategies currently used clinically (e.g., strength training) and those being developed through pre-clinical and early clinical testing [e.g., intermittent chemical stimulation via altering inhaled oxygen (hypoxia) or carbon dioxide stimulation]. Consideration is also given to the effect of training on non-respiratory (e.g., locomotor) networks. This review highlights advances in this area of pre-clinical and translational research, with insight into future directions for enhancing plasticity and improving functional outcomes after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margo Randelman
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Marion Murray Spinal Cord Research Center, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Lyandysha V Zholudeva
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Marion Murray Spinal Cord Research Center, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Stéphane Vinit
- INSERM, END-ICAP, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Versailles, France
| | - Michael A Lane
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Marion Murray Spinal Cord Research Center, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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22
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Stieglitz LH, Hofer AS, Bolliger M, Oertel MF, Filli L, Willi R, Cathomen A, Meyer C, Schubert M, Hubli M, Kessler TM, Baumann CR, Imbach L, Krüsi I, Prusse A, Schwab ME, Regli L, Curt A. Deep brain stimulation for locomotion in incomplete human spinal cord injury (DBS-SCI): protocol of a prospective one-armed multi-centre study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e047670. [PMID: 34593490 PMCID: PMC8487195 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-047670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition with immediate impact on the individual's health and quality of life. Major functional recovery reaches a plateau 3-4 months after injury despite intensive rehabilitative training. To enhance training efficacy and improve long-term outcomes, the combination of rehabilitation with electrical modulation of the spinal cord and brain has recently aroused scientific interest with encouraging results. The mesencephalic locomotor region (MLR), an evolutionarily conserved brainstem locomotor command and control centre, is considered a promising target for deep brain stimulation (DBS) in patients with SCI. Experiments showed that MLR-DBS can induce locomotion in rats with spinal white matter destructions of >85%. METHODS AND ANALYSIS In this prospective one-armed multi-centre study, we investigate the safety, feasibility, and therapeutic efficacy of MLR-DBS to enable and enhance locomotor training in severely affected, subchronic and chronic American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale C patients in order to improve functional recovery. Patients undergo an intensive training programme with MLR-DBS while being regularly followed up until 6 months post-implantation. The acquired data of each timepoint are compared with baseline while the primary endpoint is performance in the 6-minute walking test. The clinical trial protocol was written in accordance with the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials checklist. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This first in-man study investigates the therapeutic potential of MLR-DBS in SCI patients. One patient has already been implanted with electrodes and underwent MLR stimulation during locomotion. Based on the preliminary results which promise safety and feasibility, recruitment of further patients is currently ongoing. Ethical approval has been obtained from the Ethical Committee of the Canton of Zurich (case number BASEC 2016-01104) and Swissmedic (10000316). Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03053791.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna-Sophie Hofer
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Marc Bolliger
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Markus F Oertel
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Linard Filli
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Romina Willi
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Adrian Cathomen
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christian Meyer
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Schubert
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michèle Hubli
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas M Kessler
- Department of Neuro-Urology, Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Lukas Imbach
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Iris Krüsi
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Prusse
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin E Schwab
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Luca Regli
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Armin Curt
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
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23
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Martins Â, Gouveia D, Cardoso A, Viegas I, Gamboa Ó, Ferreira A. A Comparison Between Body Weight-Supported Treadmill Training and Conventional Over-Ground Training in Dogs With Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:597949. [PMID: 34277746 PMCID: PMC8280520 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.597949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In human medicine there was no evidence registered of a significant difference in recovery between body weight-supported treadmill training (BWSTT) and conventional over-ground (COGI). There isn't any similar study in veterinary medicine. Thus, this study aimed to compare the locomotor recovery obtained in incomplete SCI (T11–L3 Hansen type I) post-surgical dogs following BWSTT or COGI protocols, describing their evolution during 7 weeks in regard to OFS classifications. At admission, dogs were blindly randomized in two groups but all were subjected to the same protocol (underwater treadmill training) for the first 2 weeks. After, they were divided in the BWSTT group (n = 10) and the COGI group (n = 10) for the next 2 weeks, where they performed different training. In both groups locomotor training was accompanied by functional electrical stimulation (FES) protocols. Results reported statistically significant differences between all OFS evaluations time-points (p < 0.001) and between the two groups (p < 0.001). In particular with focus on T1 to T3 a two-way repeated measures ANOVA was performed and similar results were obtained (p = 0.007). Functional recovery was achieved in 90% (17/19) of all dogs and 100% recovered bladder function. The BWSTT group showed 100% (10/10) recovery within a mean time of 4.6 weeks, while the COGI group had 78% (7/9) within 6.1 weeks. Therefore, BWSTT leads to a faster recovery with a better outcome in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ângela Martins
- Arrábida Veterinary Hospital-Animal Rehabilitation Center, Azeitão, Portugal.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusófona University, Lisboa, Portugal.,CIISA-Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação em Saúde Animal-Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Débora Gouveia
- Arrábida Veterinary Hospital-Animal Rehabilitation Center, Azeitão, Portugal
| | - Ana Cardoso
- Arrábida Veterinary Hospital-Animal Rehabilitation Center, Azeitão, Portugal
| | - Inês Viegas
- Arrábida Veterinary Hospital-Animal Rehabilitation Center, Azeitão, Portugal
| | - Óscar Gamboa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - António Ferreira
- CIISA-Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação em Saúde Animal-Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lisboa, Portugal.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal
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24
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Cajigas I, Vedantam A. Brain-Computer Interface, Neuromodulation, and Neurorehabilitation Strategies for Spinal Cord Injury. Neurosurg Clin N Am 2021; 32:407-417. [PMID: 34053728 DOI: 10.1016/j.nec.2021.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
As neural bypass interfacing, neuromodulation, and neurorehabilitation continue to evolve, there is growing recognition that combination therapies may achieve superior results. This article briefly introduces these broad areas of active research and lays out some of the current evidence for their use for patients with spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iahn Cajigas
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami, 1095 Northwest 14th Terrace (D4-6), Miami, FL 33136, USA.
| | - Aditya Vedantam
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami, 1095 Northwest 14th Terrace (D4-6), Miami, FL 33136, USA
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25
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A model for the transfer of control from the brain to the spinal cord through synaptic learning. J Comput Neurosci 2020; 48:365-375. [PMID: 33009635 DOI: 10.1007/s10827-020-00767-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The spinal cord is essential to the control of locomotion in legged animals and humans. However, the actual circuitry of the spinal controller remains only vaguely understood. Here we approach this problem from the viewpoint of learning. More precisely, we assume the circuitry evolves through the transfer of control from the brain to the spinal cord, propose a specific learning mechanism for this transfer based on the error between the cord and brain contributions to muscle control, and study the resulting structure of the spinal controller in a simplified neuromuscular model of human locomotion. The model focuses on the leg rebound behavior in stance and represents the spinal circuitry with 150 muscle reflexes. We find that after learning a spinal controller has evolved that produces leg rebound motions in the absence of a central brain input with only three structural reflex groups. These groups contain individual reflexes well known from physiological experiments but thought to serve separate purposes in the control of human locomotion. Our results suggest a more holistic interpretation of the role of individual sensory projections in spinal networks than is common. In addition, we discuss potential neural correlates for the proposed learning mechanism that may be probed in experiments. Together with such experiments, neuromuscular models of spinal learning likely will become effective tools for uncovering the structure and development of the spinal control circuitry.
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26
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Hou J, Nelson R, Mohammad N, Mustafa G, Plant D, Thompson FJ, Bose P. Effect of Simultaneous Combined Treadmill Training and Magnetic Stimulation on Spasticity and Gait Impairments after Cervical Spinal Cord Injury. J Neurotrauma 2020; 37:1999-2013. [DOI: 10.1089/neu.2019.6961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jiamei Hou
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- BRRC, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Rachel Nelson
- BRRC, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Naweed Mohammad
- BRRC, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Golam Mustafa
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- BRRC, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Daniel Plant
- Research Service, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Floyd J. Thompson
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- BRRC, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Prodip Bose
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- BRRC, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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27
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Yamaguchi T, Beck MM, Therkildsen ER, Svane C, Forman C, Lorentzen J, Conway BA, Lundbye‐Jensen J, Geertsen SS, Nielsen JB. Transcutaneous spinal direct current stimulation increases corticospinal transmission and enhances voluntary motor output in humans. Physiol Rep 2020; 8:e14531. [PMID: 32812363 PMCID: PMC7435034 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.14531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Optimization of motor performance is of importance in daily life, in relation to recovery following injury as well as for elite sports performance. The present study investigated whether transcutaneous spinal direct current stimulation (tsDCS) may enhance voluntary ballistic activation of ankle muscles and descending activation of spinal motor neurons in able-bodied adults. Forty-one adults (21 men; 24.0 ± 3.2 years) participated in the study. The effect of tsDCS on ballistic motor performance and plantar flexor muscle activation was assessed in a double-blinded sham-controlled cross-over experiment. In separate experiments, the underlying changes in excitability of corticospinal and spinal pathways were probed by evaluating soleus (SOL) motor evoked potentials (MEPs) following single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) over the primary motor cortex, SOL H-reflexes elicited by tibial nerve stimulation and TMS-conditioning of SOL H-reflexes. Measures were obtained before and after cathodal tsDCS over the thoracic spine (T11-T12) for 10 min at 2.5 mA. We found that cathodal tsDCS transiently facilitated peak acceleration in the ballistic motor task compared to sham tsDCS. Following tsDCS, SOL MEPs were increased without changes in H-reflex amplitudes. The short-latency facilitation of the H-reflex by subthreshold TMS, which is assumed to be mediated by the fast conducting monosynaptic corticomotoneuronal pathway, was also enhanced by tsDCS. We argue that tsDCS briefly facilitates voluntary motor output by increasing descending drive from corticospinal neurones to spinal plantar flexor motor neurons. tsDCS can thus transiently promote within-session CNS function and voluntary motor output and holds potential as a technique in the rehabilitation of motor function following central nervous lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomofumi Yamaguchi
- Department of NeuroscienceUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagen NDenmark
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health ScienceJuntendo UniversityTokyoJapan
- JSPS Postdoctoral Fellow for Research AbroadTokyoJapan
| | - Mikkel M. Beck
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS)University of CopenhagenCopenhagen NDenmark
| | | | - Christian Svane
- Department of NeuroscienceUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagen NDenmark
| | - Christian Forman
- Department of NeuroscienceUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagen NDenmark
| | - Jakob Lorentzen
- Department of NeuroscienceUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagen NDenmark
- Elsass FoundationCharlottenlundDenmark
| | - Bernard A. Conway
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of StrathclydeGlasgowUK
| | - Jesper Lundbye‐Jensen
- Department of NeuroscienceUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagen NDenmark
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS)University of CopenhagenCopenhagen NDenmark
| | - Svend S. Geertsen
- Department of NeuroscienceUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagen NDenmark
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS)University of CopenhagenCopenhagen NDenmark
| | - Jens B. Nielsen
- Department of NeuroscienceUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagen NDenmark
- Elsass FoundationCharlottenlundDenmark
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28
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Duffell LD, Donaldson NDN. A Comparison of FES and SCS for Neuroplastic Recovery After SCI: Historical Perspectives and Future Directions. Front Neurol 2020; 11:607. [PMID: 32714270 PMCID: PMC7344227 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that neuroplastic changes can occur even years after spinal cord injury, leading to reduced disability and better health which should reduce the cost of healthcare. In motor-incomplete spinal cord injury, recovery of leg function may occur if repetitive training causes afferent input to the lumbar spinal cord. The afferent input may be due to activity-based therapy without electrical stimulation but we present evidence that it is faster with electrical stimulation. This may be spinal cord stimulation or peripheral nerve stimulation. Recovery is faster if the stimulation is phasic and that the patient is trying to use their legs during the training. All the published studies are small, so all conclusions are provisional, but it appears that patients with more disability (AIS A and B) may need to continue using stimulation and for them, an implanted stimulator is likely to be convenient. Patients with less disability (AIS C and D) may make useful recovery and improve their quality of life from a course of therapy. This might be locomotion therapy but we argue that cycling with electrical stimulation, which uses biofeedback to encourage descending drive, causes rapid recovery and might be used with little supervision at home, making it much less expensive. Such an electrical therapy followed by conventional physiotherapy might be affordable for the many people living with chronic SCI. To put this in perspective, we present some information about what treatments are funded in the UK and the US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynsey D Duffell
- Implanted Devices Group, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Aspire CREATe, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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29
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Stampacchia G, Olivieri M, Rustici A, D'Avino C, Gerini A, Mazzoleni S. Gait rehabilitation in persons with spinal cord injury using innovative technologies: an observational study. Spinal Cord 2020; 58:988-997. [PMID: 32251368 DOI: 10.1038/s41393-020-0454-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Prospective, quasi-experimental study, pre- and post-design, single arm study. OBJECTIVES Investigate whether persons affected by SCI can safely experience walking function using Robotic Exoskeletons and Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES). SETTING Inpatient METHODS: 52 persons with SCI were recruited (36 completed the protocol) and assigned to one of two groups based on their Lower Limb Motor Scores (LEMS): Group A: LEMS ≥ 10 and Group B: LEMS < 10. Participants in Group A (n = 19) underwent 20 sessions of Robot-Assisted Gait Training (RAGT) on a treadmill followed by 20 sessions of FES during Overground Gait (FES-OG). Participants in Group B (n = 17) received 20 sessions of FES-cycling followed by 20 sessions of overground RAGT. The main outcome measures were: WISCI-II, 10MWT, 6MWT, TUG and SCIM-II. RESULTS 36 persons completed the study with no complications; only 4 of the 16 dropped out because of mild complications during the RAGT. Participants in Group A exhibited significant improvements in WISCI-II, 10MWT, 6MWT and TUG (p < 0.05), while those in Group B did not significantly improve their gait function but their walking velocity and resistance with the assistance of the robotic exoskeleton increased. SCIM-II scores increased followed therapy only in Group A. CONCLUSIONS Persons affected by SCI can safely experience their walking function with RAGT and FES therapy; only few mild complications were observed. Our data provides initial evidence of the potential value of these technologies, especially in persons with SCI having LEMS > 10.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Carla D'Avino
- Spinal Cord Unit, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
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30
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Calabrò RS, Billeri L, Andronaco VA, Accorinti M, Milardi D, Cannavò A, Aliberti E, Militi A, Bramanti P, Naro A. Walking on the Moon: A randomized clinical trial on the role of lower body positive pressure treadmill training in post-stroke gait impairment. J Adv Res 2020; 21:15-24. [PMID: 31641534 PMCID: PMC6796731 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2019.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of LBPP on locomotion in neurologic patients are poorly predictable. The mechanisms through which LPBB acts on gait are partially unknown. Gait training using AlterG improves functional gait in post-stroke patients. AlterG increases muscle activation and/or phasic muscle activation in post-stroke. This knowledge may be useful to plan patient-tailored LBPP locomotor training.
Body weight–supported treadmill training (BWSTT) can be usefully employed to facilitate gait recovery in patients with neurological injuries. Specifically, lower body positive pressure support system (LBPPSS) decreases weight-bearing and ground reaction forces with potentially positive effects on qualitative gait indices. However, which gait features are being shaped by LBPPSS in post-stroke patients is yet poorly predictable. A pilot study on the effects of LBPPSS on qualitative and quantitative gait indices was carried out in patients with hemiparesis due to stroke in the chronic phase. Fifty patients, who suffered from a first, single, ischemic, supra-tentorial stroke that occurred at least 6 months before study inclusion, were enrolled in the study. They were provided with 24 daily sessions of gait training using either the AlterG device or conventional treadmill gait training (TGT). These patients were compared with 25 age-matched healthy controls (HC), who were provided with the same amount of AlterG. Qualitative and quantitative gait features, including Functional Ambulation Categories, gait cycle features, and muscle activation patterns were analyzed before and after the training. It was found that AlterG provided the patients with higher quantitative but not qualitative gait features, as compared to TGT. In particular, AlterG specifically shaped muscle activation phases and gait cycle features in patients, whereas it increased only overall muscle activation in HC. These data suggest that treadmill gait training equipped with LBPPSS specifically targets the gait features that are abnormal in chronic post-stroke patients. It is hypothesizable that the specificity of AlterG effects may depend on a selective reshape of gait rhythmogenesis elaborated by the locomotor spinal circuits receiving a deteriorated corticospinal drive. Even though further studies are warranted to clarify the role of treadmills equipped with LBPPSS in gait training of chronic post-stroke patients, the knowledge of the exact gait pattern during weight-relief is potentially useful to plan patient-tailored locomotor training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocco Salvatore Calabrò
- Robotic Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Messina, Italy
- Corresponding author at: Rocco Salvatore Calabrò, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo; via Palermo, SS 113, ctr. Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy.
| | - Luana Billeri
- Robotic Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Maria Accorinti
- Robotic Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Messina, Italy
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- Robotic Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Messina, Italy
- Department of Biomorphology and Biotechnologies, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonino Cannavò
- Robotic Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Messina, Italy
| | - Enrico Aliberti
- Department of Motor Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Angela Militi
- Department of Motor Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Placido Bramanti
- Robotic Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonino Naro
- Robotic Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Messina, Italy
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31
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Higgin D, Krupka A, Maghsoudi OH, Klishko AN, Nichols TR, Lyle MA, Prilutsky BI, Lemay MA. Adaptation to slope in locomotor-trained spinal cats with intact and self-reinnervated lateral gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. J Neurophysiol 2020; 123:70-89. [PMID: 31693435 PMCID: PMC6985865 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00018.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensorimotor training providing motion-dependent somatosensory feedback to spinal locomotor networks restores treadmill weight-bearing stepping on flat surfaces in spinal cats. In this study, we examined if locomotor ability on flat surfaces transfers to sloped surfaces and the contribution of length-dependent sensory feedback from lateral gastrocnemius (LG) and soleus (Sol) to locomotor recovery after spinal transection and locomotor training. We compared kinematics and muscle activity at different slopes (±10° and ±25°) in spinalized cats (n = 8) trained to walk on a flat treadmill. Half of those animals had their right hindlimb LG/Sol nerve cut and reattached before spinal transection and locomotor training, a procedure called muscle self-reinnervation that leads to elimination of autogenic monosynaptic length feedback in spinally intact animals. All spinal animals trained on a flat surface were able to walk on slopes with minimal differences in walking kinematics and muscle activity between animals with/without LG/Sol self-reinnervation. We found minimal changes in kinematics and muscle activity at lower slopes (±10°), indicating that walking patterns obtained on flat surfaces are robust enough to accommodate low slopes. Contrary to results in spinal intact animals, force responses to muscle stretch largely returned in both SELF-REINNERVATED muscles for the trained spinalized animals. Overall, our results indicate that the locomotor patterns acquired with training on a level surface transfer to walking on low slopes and that spinalization may allow the recovery of autogenic monosynaptic length feedback following muscle self-reinnervation.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Spinal locomotor networks locomotor trained on a flat surface can adapt the locomotor output to slope walking, up to ±25° of slope, even with total absence of supraspinal CONTROL. Autogenic length feedback (stretch reflex) shows signs of recovery in spinalized animals, contrary to results in spinally intact animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwight Higgin
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Wilmington, Delaware
| | - Alexander Krupka
- Department of Natural Science, DeSales University, Center Valley, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Alexander N Klishko
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - T Richard Nichols
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Mark A Lyle
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Boris I Prilutsky
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Michel A Lemay
- Department of Bioengineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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32
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Hodshon AW, Thomas WB. Transient depression of pelvic limb reflexes in dogs with acute focal thoracolumbar myelopathy. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2019; 253:1022-1031. [PMID: 30272519 DOI: 10.2460/javma.253.8.1022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence of depressed pelvic limb reflexes and changes in those reflexes over time in dogs with acute thoracolumbar myelopathy. DESIGN Prospective study. ANIMALS 34 dogs. PROCEDURES Dogs with acute pelvic limb paralysis caused by acute noncompressive nucleus pulposus extrusion (ANNPE), fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE), or compressive intervertebral disk herniation (IVDH) within the T3-L3 spinal cord segments were enrolled in the study. Dogs with depressed or absent pelvic limb withdrawal reflexes as determined by 2 examiners were classified as affected and underwent additional testing to rule out multifocal lesions. Pelvic limb reflexes of affected dogs were reassessed every 12 hours until they returned to normal. Neurologic examinations were performed at 4 and 8 weeks after initial examination for some dogs. RESULTS Compressive IVDH, ANNPE, and FCE were diagnosed in 30, 1, and 3 dogs, respectively. Nine (5 with compressive IVDH and all 4 with FCE or ANNPE) of 34 (26%) dogs were classified as affected. Patellar reflexes were depressed in 2 of 9 affected dogs. The median time required for withdrawal reflexes to return to normal was 60 hours (range, 12 to 156 hours). Onset duration of paralysis was negatively associated with the odds of a dog being classified as affected. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results indicated that dogs with focal thoracolumbar spinal cord lesions, especially those with peracute onset of paralysis, can develop transient depression of pelvic limb reflexes. Awareness of this phenomenon is important for veterinarians to accurately localize lesions and develop appropriate diagnostic plans and prognoses.
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Godi M, Giardini M, Schieppati M. Walking Along Curved Trajectories. Changes With Age and Parkinson's Disease. Hints to Rehabilitation. Front Neurol 2019; 10:532. [PMID: 31178816 PMCID: PMC6543918 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review, we briefly recall the fundamental processes allowing us to change locomotion trajectory and keep walking along a curved path and provide a review of contemporary literature on turning in older adults and people with Parkinson's Disease (PD). The first part briefly summarizes the way the body exploits the physical laws to produce a curved walking trajectory. Then, the changes in muscle and brain activation underpinning this task, and the promoting role of proprioception, are briefly considered. Another section is devoted to the gait changes occurring in curved walking and steering with aging. Further, freezing during turning and rehabilitation of curved walking in patients with PD is mentioned in the last part. Obviously, as the research on body steering while walking or turning has boomed in the last 10 years, the relevant critical issues have been tackled and ways to improve this locomotor task proposed. Rationale and evidences for successful training procedures are available, to potentially reduce the risk of falling in both older adults and patients with PD. A better understanding of the pathophysiology of steering, of the subtle but vital interaction between posture, balance, and progression along non-linear trajectories, and of the residual motor learning capacities in these cohorts may provide solid bases for new rehabilitative approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Godi
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, ICS Maugeri SPA SB, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marica Giardini
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, ICS Maugeri SPA SB, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Schieppati
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, International University of Health, Exercise and Sports, LUNEX University, Differdange, Luxembourg
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Masugi Y, Sasaki A, Kaneko N, Nakazawa K. Remote muscle contraction enhances spinal reflexes in multiple lower-limb muscles elicited by transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation. Exp Brain Res 2019; 237:1793-1803. [PMID: 31053895 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-019-05536-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) is a useful technique for the clinical assessment of neurological disorders. However, the characteristics of the spinal cord circuits activated by tSCS are not yet fully understood. In this study, we examined whether remote muscle contraction enhances the spinal reflexes evoked by tSCS in multiple lower-limb muscles. Eight healthy men participated in the current experiment, which required them to grip a dynamometer as fast as possible after the presentation of an auditory cue. Spinal reflexes were evoked in multiple lower-limb muscles with different time intervals (50-400 ms) after the auditory signals. The amplitudes of the spinal reflexes in all the recorded leg muscles significantly increased at 50-250 ms after remote muscle activation onset. This suggests that remote muscle contraction simultaneously facilitates the spinal reflexes in multiple lower-limb muscles. In addition, eight healthy men performed five different tasks (i.e., rest, hand grip, pinch grip, elbow flexion, and shoulder flexion). Compared to control values recorded just before each task, the spinal reflexes evoked at 250 ms after the auditory signals were significantly enhanced by the above tasks except for the rest task. This indicates that such facilitatory effects are also induced by remote muscle contractions in different upper-limb areas. The present results demonstrate the existence of a neural interaction between remote upper-limb muscles and spinal reflex circuits activated by tSCS in multiple lower-limb muscles. The combination of tSCS and remote muscle contraction may be useful for the neurological examination of spinal cord circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yohei Masugi
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8902, Japan
- Institute of Sports Medicine and Science, Tokyo International University, 2509 Matoba, Kawagoe-shi, Saitama, 350-1198, Japan
| | - Atsushi Sasaki
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8902, Japan
| | - Naotsugu Kaneko
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8902, Japan
| | - Kimitaka Nakazawa
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-8902, Japan.
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Spinal Cord Epidural Stimulation for Lower Limb Motor Function Recovery in Individuals with Motor Complete Spinal Cord Injury. Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am 2019; 30:337-354. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pmr.2018.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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36
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Awosika OO, Sandrini M, Volochayev R, Thompson RM, Fishman N, Wu T, Floeter MK, Hallett M, Cohen LG. Transcutaneous spinal direct current stimulation improves locomotor learning in healthy humans. Brain Stimul 2019; 12:628-634. [PMID: 30733143 PMCID: PMC7326485 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2019.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ambulation is an essential aspect of daily living and is often impaired after brain and spinal cord injuries. Despite the implementation of standard neurorehabilitative care, locomotor recovery is often incomplete. OBJECTIVE In this randomized, sham-controlled, double-blind, parallel design study, we aimed to determine if anodal transcutaneous spinal direct current stimulation (anodal tsDCS) could improve training effects on locomotion compared to sham (sham tsDCS) in healthy subjects. METHODS 43 participants underwent a single backwards locomotion training (BLT) session on a reverse treadmill with concurrent anodal (n = 22) or sham (n = 21) tsDCS. The primary outcome measure was speed gain measured 24 h post-training. We hypothesized that anodal tsDCS + BLT would improve training effects on backward locomotor speed compared to sham tsDCS + BLT. A subset of participants (n = 31) returned for two additional training days of either anodal (n = 16) or sham (n = 15) tsDCS and underwent (n = 29) H-reflex testing immediately before, immediately after, and 30 min post-training over three consecutive days. RESULTS A single session of anodal tsDCS + BLT elicited greater speed gain at 24 h relative to sham tsDCS + BLT (p = 0.008, two-sample t-test, adjusted for one interim analysis after the initial 12 subjects). Anodal tsDCS + BLT resulted in higher retention of the acquired skill at day 30 relative to sham tsDCS + BLT (p = 0.002) in the absence of significant group differences in online or offline learning over the three training days (p = 0.467 and p = 0.131). BLT resulted in transient down-regulation of H-reflex amplitude (Hmax/Mmax) in both test groups (p < 0.0001). However, the concurrent application of anodal-tsDCS with BLT elicited a longer lasting effect than sham-tsDCS + BLT (p = 0.050). CONCLUSION tsDCS improved locomotor skill acquisition and retention in healthy subjects and prolonged the physiological exercise-mediated downregulation of excitability of the alpha motoneuron pool. These results suggest that this strategy is worth exploring in neurorehabilitation of locomotor function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwole O Awosika
- Human Cortical Physiology and Neurorehabilitation Section, NINDS, USA; Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Cincinnati, USA.
| | - Marco Sandrini
- Human Cortical Physiology and Neurorehabilitation Section, NINDS, USA; Department of Psychology, University of Roehampton, London, UK
| | - Rita Volochayev
- Human Cortical Physiology and Neurorehabilitation Section, NINDS, USA
| | - Ryan M Thompson
- Human Cortical Physiology and Neurorehabilitation Section, NINDS, USA
| | - Nathan Fishman
- Human Cortical Physiology and Neurorehabilitation Section, NINDS, USA
| | | | | | | | - Leonardo G Cohen
- Human Cortical Physiology and Neurorehabilitation Section, NINDS, USA
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Intramuscular Injection of Adenoassociated Virus Encoding Human Neurotrophic Factor 3 and Exercise Intervention Contribute to Reduce Spasms after Spinal Cord Injury. Neural Plast 2019; 2019:3017678. [PMID: 30984254 PMCID: PMC6432737 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3017678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Limb spasms are phenomena of hyperreflexia that occur after spinal cord injury. Currently, the clinical treatment is less than ideal. Our goal is to develop a combination therapy based on individualized medicine to reduce spasticity after spinal cord injury. In this study, rats received a severe contusive injury at the T9 segment of the spinal cord, followed by gene therapy with adenoassociated virus encoding human neurotrophic factor 3 (AAV-NT3) and a 2-week exercise program starting at 4 weeks after injury. We quantified the frequency of spasms during a swimming test at 4 and 6 weeks after injury and confirmed the results of the swimming test by measuring the H-reflex of the plantar muscle. We obtained weekly hind limb exercise scores to assess the effect of the interventions in hind limb motor function improvement. Then, we used immunofluorescence to observe the immunoreactivity of spinal motor neurons, synaptophysin, cholinergic interneurons, and GABAergic interneurons. We also measured the expression of KCC2 in the spinal cord by western blot. We found that AAV-NT3 gene therapy, exercise, and combination therapy all attenuated the frequency of spasms in the swimming test conducted at 6 weeks after spinal cord injury and increased rate-dependent depression of H-reflex. Combination therapy was significantly superior to AAV-NT3 alone in protecting motor neurons. Recovery of KCC2 expression was significantly greater in rats treated with combination therapy than in the exercise group. Combination therapy was also significantly superior to individual therapies in remodeling spinal cord neurons. Our study shows that the combination of AAV-NT3 gene therapy and exercise can alleviate muscle spasm after spinal cord injury by altering the excitability of spinal interneurons and motor neurons. However, combination therapy did not show a significant additive effect, which needs to be improved by adjusting the combined strategy.
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38
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Chisholm AE, Qaiser T, Williams AMM, Eginyan G, Lam T. Acquisition of a precision walking skill and the impact of proprioceptive deficits in people with motor-incomplete spinal cord injury. J Neurophysiol 2019; 121:1078-1084. [PMID: 30726165 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00432.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Many people with motor-incomplete spinal cord injury (m-iSCI) experience difficulty navigating obstacles, such as curbs and stairs. The ability to relearn walking skills may be limited by proprioceptive deficits. The purpose of this study was to determine the capacity of participants to acquire a precision walking skill, and to evaluate the influence of proprioceptive deficits on the skill acquisition in individuals with m-iSCI. Sixteen individuals with m-iSCI and eight controls performed a precision walking task that required matching their foot height to a target during the swing phase. Proprioceptive deficits were quantified at the hip and knee for joint position and movement detection sense. Participants completed 600 steps of training with visual feedback. Pretraining and posttraining tests were conducted without visual feedback, along with a transfer test with an ankle weight. Posttraining and transfer tests were repeated 1 day later. Participants returned to the laboratory 1 wk later to repeat the training. Performance was calculated as the vertical distance between the target and actual foot height for each step. The posttraining and transfer performances were similar between groups. However, participants with m-iSCI had a slower rate of acquisition to achieve a similar performance level compared with controls. Acquisition rate and posttraining performance of the precision walking task were related to lower limb joint position sense among SCI participants. Although they can achieve a similar level of performance in a precision walking task, proprioceptive deficits impair the rate of learning among individuals with m-iSCI compared with able-bodied controls. NEW & NOTEWORTHY People with motor-incomplete spinal cord injuries are able to achieve the same level of performance accuracy on a precision walking task as able-bodied controls; however, the rate of learning is slower, indicating that more practice is required to stabilize performance. Our findings also show a relationship between impaired sensory function and reduced accuracy when performing a precision walking task after spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda E Chisholm
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries, Vancouver Costal Health Research Institute , Vancouver, British Columbia , Canada
| | - Taha Qaiser
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries, Vancouver Costal Health Research Institute , Vancouver, British Columbia , Canada
| | - Alison M M Williams
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries, Vancouver Costal Health Research Institute , Vancouver, British Columbia , Canada
| | - Gevorg Eginyan
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries, Vancouver Costal Health Research Institute , Vancouver, British Columbia , Canada
| | - Tania Lam
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries, Vancouver Costal Health Research Institute , Vancouver, British Columbia , Canada
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Yokota K, Kubota K, Kobayakawa K, Saito T, Hara M, Kijima K, Maeda T, Katoh H, Ohkawa Y, Nakashima Y, Okada S. Pathological changes of distal motor neurons after complete spinal cord injury. Mol Brain 2019; 12:4. [PMID: 30626449 PMCID: PMC6327522 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-018-0422-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) causes serious disruption of neuronal circuits that leads to motor functional deficits. Regeneration of disrupted circuits back to their original target is necessary for the restoration of function after SCI, but the pathophysiological condition of the caudal spinal cord has not been sufficiently studied. Here we investigated the histological and biological changes in the distal part of the injured spinal cord, using a mice model of complete thoracic SCI in the chronic stage (3 months after injury). Atrophic changes were widely observed in the injured spinal cord both rostral and caudal to the lesion, but the decrease in area was mainly in the white matter in the rostral spinal cord while both the white and gray matter decreased in the caudal spinal cord. The number of the motor neurons was maintained in the chronic phase of injury, but the number of presynaptic boutons decreased in the lumbar motor neurons caudal to the lesion. Using laser microdissection, to investigate gene expressions in motor neurons caudal to the lesion, we observed a decrease in the expressions of neuronal activity markers. However, we found that the synaptogenic potential of postsynapse molecules was maintained in the motor neurons after SCI with the expression of acetylcholine-related molecules actually higher after SCI. Collectively, our results show that the potential of synaptogenesis is maintained in the motor neurons caudal to the lesion, even though presynaptic input is decreased. Although researches into SCI concentrate their effort on the lesion epicenter, our findings suggest that the area caudal to the lesion could be an original therapeutic target for the chronically injured spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuya Yokota
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.,Department of Immunology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Spinal Injuries Center, 550-4 Igisu, Iizuka, Fukuoka, 820-8508, Japan
| | - Kensuke Kubota
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.,Department of Immunology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Spinal Injuries Center, 550-4 Igisu, Iizuka, Fukuoka, 820-8508, Japan
| | - Kazu Kobayakawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.,Department of Immunology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Takeyuki Saito
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.,Department of Immunology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Hara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.,Department of Immunology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Ken Kijima
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.,Department of Immunology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Takeshi Maeda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Spinal Injuries Center, 550-4 Igisu, Iizuka, Fukuoka, 820-8508, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Katoh
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokai University School of Medicine, 143 Shimokasuya, Isehara, Kanagawa, 259-1193, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Ohkawa
- Department of Transcriptomics, JST-CREST, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Yasuharu Nakashima
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Seiji Okada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan. .,Department of Immunology and Neuroscience, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.
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Covarrubias-Escudero F, Rivera-Lillo G, Torres-Castro R, Varas-Díaz G. Effects of body weight-support treadmill training on postural sway and gait independence in patients with chronic spinal cord injury. J Spinal Cord Med 2019; 42:57-64. [PMID: 29058553 PMCID: PMC6340274 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2017.1389676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the effects of a six-week body weight-support treadmill training (BWSTT) program on center-of-mass control and gait independence in chronic, incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI) patients. DESIGN Descriptive. SETTING Clinica Los Coihues. Neurorehabilitation center in Santiago, Chile. PARTICIPANTS 17 chronic iSCI patients and 17 healthy subjects. OUTCOME MEASURES An instrumented sway (ISway) test was performed before and after the implementation of a six-week BWSTT program. The standing balance of participants was measured by Normalized jerk (NJ) and root mean square (RMS). These values were used to assess the standing balance of participants, and were correlated with the scores obtained on the Walking Index Spinal Cord Injury (WISCI) II test. RESULTS Significant differences were found in standing balance (i.e., through NJ) after the BWSTT program (P = 0.016), but no significant differences were found in RMS values for postural sway (P = 0.693). None of the patients obtained improved WISCI II scores pre- vs. post-intervention. CONCLUSION While a BWSTT program can improve center-of-mass control in iSCI patients, no effects were recorded for gait independence. TRIAL REGISTRATION National Clinical Trials, registry number NCT02703883.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gonzalo Rivera-Lillo
- Center of Integrated Studies in Neurorehabilitation, Clínica Los Coihues, Santiago, Chile,Department of Physical Therapy, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Torres-Castro
- Center of Integrated Studies in Neurorehabilitation, Clínica Los Coihues, Santiago, Chile,Department of Physical Therapy, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gonzalo Varas-Díaz
- Center of Integrated Studies in Neurorehabilitation, Clínica Los Coihues, Santiago, Chile,Correspondence to: Gonzalo Varas-Díaz Adress: Center of Integrated Studies in Neurorehabilitation, Clínica Los Coihues, Santiago, Chile, Laguna Sur 6561, Estación Central, Santiago, Chile; Ph: (+562)24657900.
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Arpin DJ, Forrest G, Harkema SJ, Rejc E. Submaximal Marker for Investigating Peak Muscle Torque Using Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation after Paralysis. J Neurotrauma 2018; 36:930-936. [PMID: 30226407 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2018.5848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in deleterious skeletal muscle adaptations, such as relevant atrophy and loss of force. In particular, the relevant loss of lower-limb force-generating capacity may limit functional mobility even if neuronal control was sufficient. Currently, methods of assessing maximal force-generating capacity using neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) are limited in individuals who cannot tolerate higher stimulation amplitudes, such as those with residual sensation and those at risk of fracture. In this study, we examined the relationship between NMES amplitude and muscle torque exerted (recruitment curve) in order to determine whether maximal torque output can be characterized by a submaximal marker. Recruitment curves for knee extensors, knee flexors, and ankle plantarflexors were recorded from 30 individuals with motor complete SCI. NMES was delivered starting with an amplitude of 5 mA, and increasing by 5 mA for every subsequent stimulation until either the participant requested to stop the stimulation or the maximum stimulation amplitude (140 mA) was reached. Significant correlations between peak slope of the recruitment curve and peak torque for all muscle groups were found (knee extensors, r = 0.75; p < 0.0001; knee flexors, r = 0.68; p < 0.0001; ankle plantarflexors, r = 0.91; p < 0.0001), indicating that muscles that show greater peak slope of the recruitment curve tend to generate a greater peak torque. This suggests that peak slope, which was achieved at an average stimulation intensity (55.0 mA) that was 43% smaller than that corresponding to peak torque (97.4 mA), may be used as a submaximal marker for characterizing maximal torque output in individuals with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Arpin
- 1 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky.,2 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Gail Forrest
- 3 Human Performance and Engineering Research, Kessler Foundation, West Orange, New Jersey.,4 Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Susan J Harkema
- 1 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky.,2 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky.,5 Frazier Rehab Institute, Kentucky One Health, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Enrico Rejc
- 1 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky.,2 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
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Dingu N, Deumens R, Taccola G. Afferent Input Induced by Rhythmic Limb Movement Modulates Spinal Neuronal Circuits in an Innovative Robotic In Vitro Preparation. Neuroscience 2018; 394:44-59. [PMID: 30342198 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Locomotor patterns are mainly modulated by afferent feedback, but its actual contribution to spinal network activity during continuous passive limb training is still unexplored. To unveil this issue, we devised a robotic in vitro setup (Bipedal Induced Kinetic Exercise, BIKE) to induce passive pedaling, while simultaneously recording low-noise ventral and dorsal root (VR and DR) potentials in isolated neonatal rat spinal cords with hindlimbs attached. As a result, BIKE evoked rhythmic afferent volleys from DRs, reminiscent of pedaling speed. During BIKE, spontaneous VR activity remained unchanged, while a DR rhythmic component paired the pedaling pace. Moreover, BIKE onset rarely elicited brief episodes of fictive locomotion (FL) and, when trains of electrical pulses were simultaneously applied to a DR, it increased the amplitude, but not the number, of FL cycles. When BIKE was switched off after a 30-min training, the number of electrically induced FL oscillations was transitorily facilitated, without affecting VR reflexes or DR potentials. However, 90 min of BIKE no longer facilitated FL, but strongly depressed area of VR reflexes and stably increased antidromic DR discharges. Patch clamp recordings from single motoneurons after 90-min sessions indicated an increased frequency of both fast- and slow-decaying synaptic input to motoneurons. In conclusion, hindlimb rhythmic and alternated pedaling for different durations affects distinct dorsal and ventral spinal networks by modulating excitatory and inhibitory input to motoneurons. These results suggest defining new parameters for effective neurorehabilitation that better exploits spinal circuit activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nejada Dingu
- Neuroscience Department, International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA), via Bonomea 265, Trieste, TS, Italy; SPINAL (Spinal Person Injury Neurorehabilitation Applied Laboratory), Istituto di Medicina Fisica e Riabilitazione (IMFR), via Gervasutta 48, Udine, UD, Italy
| | - Ronald Deumens
- Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Av. Hippocrate 54, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Giuliano Taccola
- Neuroscience Department, International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA), via Bonomea 265, Trieste, TS, Italy; SPINAL (Spinal Person Injury Neurorehabilitation Applied Laboratory), Istituto di Medicina Fisica e Riabilitazione (IMFR), via Gervasutta 48, Udine, UD, Italy.
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43
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Hayes SC, James Wilcox CR, Forbes White HS, Vanicek N. The effects of robot assisted gait training on temporal-spatial characteristics of people with spinal cord injuries: A systematic review. J Spinal Cord Med 2018; 41:529-543. [PMID: 29400988 PMCID: PMC6117598 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2018.1426236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Robotic assisted gait training (RAGT) technology can be used as a rehabilitation tool or as an assistive device for spinal cord injured (SCI) individuals. Its impact on upright stepping characteristics of SCI individuals using treadmill or overground robotic exoskeleton systems has yet to be established. OBJECTIVE To systematically review the literature and identify if overground or treadmill based RAGT use in SCI individuals elicited differences in temporal-spatial characteristics and functional outcome measures. METHODS A systematic search of the literature investigating overground and treadmill RAGT in SCIs was undertaken excluding case-studies and case-series. Studies were included if the primary outcomes were temporal-spatial gait parameters. Study inclusion and methodological quality were assessed and determined independently by two reviewers. Methodological quality was assessed using a validated scoring system for randomized and non-randomized trials. RESULTS Twelve studies met all inclusion criteria. Participant numbers ranged from 5-130 with injury levels from C2 to T12, American Spinal Injuries Association A-D. Three studies used overground RAGT systems and the remaining nine focused on treadmill based RAGT systems. Primary outcome measures were walking speed and walking distance. The use of treadmill or overground based RAGT did not result in an increase in walking speed beyond that of conventional gait training and no studies reviewed enabled a large enough improvement to facilitate community ambulation. CONCLUSION The use of RAGT in SCI individuals has the potential to benefit upright locomotion of SCI individuals. Its use should not replace other therapies but be incorporated into a multi-modality rehabilitation approach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christopher Richard James Wilcox
- School of Life Sciences, University of Hull, Hull, UK,Correspondence to: Dr. Christopher Richard James Wilcox, School of Life Sciences, University of Hull, Don Building, Cottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK.
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Martinez SA, Nguyen ND, Bailey E, Doyle-Green D, Hauser HA, Handrakis JP, Knezevic S, Marett C, Weinman J, Romero AF, Santiago TM, Yang AH, Yung L, Asselin PK, Weir JP, Kornfeld SD, Bauman WA, Spungen AM, Harel NY. Multimodal cortical and subcortical exercise compared with treadmill training for spinal cord injury. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0202130. [PMID: 30092092 PMCID: PMC6084979 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0202130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Spared fibers after spinal cord injury (SCI) tend to consist predominantly of subcortical circuits that are not under volitional (cortical) control. We aim to improve function after SCI by using targeted physical exercises designed to simultaneously stimulate cortical and spared subcortical neural circuits. METHODS Participants with chronic motor-incomplete SCI enrolled in a single-center, prospective interventional crossover study. Participants underwent 48 sessions each of weight-supported robotic-assisted treadmill training and a novel combination of balance and fine hand exercises, in randomized order, with a 6-week washout period. Change post-intervention was measured for lower extremity motor score, soleus H-reflex facilitation; seated balance function; ambulation; spasticity; and pain. RESULTS Only 9 of 21 enrolled participants completed both interventions. Thirteen participants completed at least one intervention. Although there were no statistically significant differences, multimodal training tended to increase short-interval H-reflex facilitation, whereas treadmill training tended to improve dynamic seated balance. DISCUSSION The low number of participants who completed both phases of the crossover intervention limited the power of this study to detect significant effects. Other potential explanations for the lack of significant differences with multimodal training could include insufficient engagement of lower extremity motor cortex using skilled upper extremity exercises; and lack of skill transfer from upright postural stability during multimodal training to seated dynamic balance during testing. To our knowledge, this is the first published study to report seated posturography outcomes after rehabilitation interventions in individuals with SCI. CONCLUSION In participants with chronic incomplete SCI, a novel mix of multimodal exercises incorporating balance exercises with skilled upper extremity exercises showed no benefit compared to an active control program of body weight-supported treadmill training. To improve participant retention in long-term rehabilitation studies, subsequent trials would benefit from a parallel group rather than crossover study design.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nhuquynh D. Nguyen
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Eric Bailey
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Denis Doyle-Green
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Henry A. Hauser
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - John P. Handrakis
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- New York Institute of Technology, Old Westbury, New York, United States of America
| | - Steven Knezevic
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Casey Marett
- New York Institute of Technology, Old Westbury, New York, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Weinman
- New York Institute of Technology, Old Westbury, New York, United States of America
| | - Angelica F. Romero
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Tiffany M. Santiago
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Ajax H. Yang
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Lok Yung
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Pierre K. Asselin
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Joseph P. Weir
- University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Stephen D. Kornfeld
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - William A. Bauman
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Ann M. Spungen
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Noam Y. Harel
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Chu VWT, Hornby TG, Schmit BD. Stepping responses to treadmill perturbations vary with severity of motor deficits in human SCI. J Neurophysiol 2018; 120:497-508. [PMID: 29668389 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00486.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the responses to tread perturbations during human stepping on a treadmill. Our approach was to test the effects of perturbations to a single leg using a split-belt treadmill in healthy participants and in participants with varying severity of spinal cord injury (SCI). We recruited 11 people with incomplete SCI and 5 noninjured participants. As participants walked on an instrumented treadmill, the belt on one side was stopped or accelerated briefly during midstance to late stance. A majority of participants initiated an unnecessary swing when the treadmill was stopped in midstance, although the likelihood of initiating a step was decreased in participants with more severe SCI. Accelerating or decelerating one belt of the treadmill during stance altered the characteristics of swing. We observed delayed swing initiation when the belt was decelerated (i.e., the hip was in a more flexed position at time of swing) and advanced swing initiation with acceleration (i.e., hip extended at swing initiation). Furthermore, the timing and leg posture of heel strike appeared to remain constant, reflected by a sagittal plane hip angle at heel strike that remained the same regardless of the perturbation. In summary, our results supported the current understanding of the role of sensory feedback and central drive in the control of stepping in participants with incomplete SCI and noninjured participants. In particular, the observation of unnecessary swing during a stop perturbation highlights the interdependence of central and sensory drive in walking control. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Using a novel approach with a split-belt treadmill, we tested the effects of hip angle perturbations to a single leg in healthy participants and participants with varying severity of spinal cord injury (SCI). A majority of participants initiated an unnecessary swing when the treadmill was stopped in midstance, although the likelihood of initiating a step decreased with the severity of SCI. Our results demonstrated interdependence of central and sensory drive in walking control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia W T Chu
- Sensory Motor Performance Program, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago , Chicago, Illinois
| | - T George Hornby
- Sensory Motor Performance Program, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago , Chicago, Illinois.,Department of Physical Therapy, University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago, Illinois
| | - Brian D Schmit
- Sensory Motor Performance Program, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago , Chicago, Illinois.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Marquette University , Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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Ryu Y, Ogata T, Nagao M, Sawada Y, Nishimura R, Fujita N. Effects of Treadmill Training Combined with Serotonergic Interventions on Spasticity after Contusive Spinal Cord Injury. J Neurotrauma 2018; 35:1358-1366. [PMID: 29336209 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2017.5400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Spasticity usually emerges during the course of recovery from spinal cord injury (SCI). While medications and physical rehabilitation are prescribed to alleviate spastic symptoms, the insufficiency of their effects remains an important problem to be addressed. Given the challenges associated with increasing the dose of medication, we hypothesized that a combination therapy with medication and physical rehabilitation can be effective. Therefore, we examined the effects of treadmill training (TMT) along with serotonergic medication using a spastic rat model after contusive injury. Spasticity-strong SCI rats were selected 4 weeks after SCI and received one of the following interventions for 2 weeks: only TMT, TMT with fluoxetine (a selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor), TMT with cyproheptadine (a 5-HT2 receptor antagonist), only fluoxetine, or only cyproheptadine. We performed the swimming test to quantify the frequency of spastic behaviors. We also evaluated hindlimb locomotor functions every week. At the end of the intervention, we examined the Hoffman reflex from the plantar muscle and the immunoreactivity of the 5-HT2A receptor in spinal cord tissues. While the TMT group and cyproheptadine-treated groups showed decreased spastic behaviors and reduction in spinal hyperreflexia, the fluoxetine-treated group showed the opposite effect, even with TMT. Moreover, TMT suppressed the expression of the 5-HT2A receptor in the lumbar spinal motor neurons, while cyproheptadine treatment did not change it. We did not observe any differences in locomotor functions between the groups. Taken together, our findings indicate that TMT and cyproheptadine significantly alleviated spastic symptoms, but did not show synergistic or additive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngjae Ryu
- 1 Department of Veterinary Surgery, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo , Tokyo, Japan .,2 Department of Rehabilitation for the Movement Functions, Research Institute , National Rehabilitation Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Toru Ogata
- 2 Department of Rehabilitation for the Movement Functions, Research Institute , National Rehabilitation Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Motoshi Nagao
- 2 Department of Rehabilitation for the Movement Functions, Research Institute , National Rehabilitation Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Sawada
- 2 Department of Rehabilitation for the Movement Functions, Research Institute , National Rehabilitation Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Ryohei Nishimura
- 1 Department of Veterinary Surgery, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo , Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoki Fujita
- 1 Department of Veterinary Surgery, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo , Tokyo, Japan
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Schrade SO, Dätwyler K, Stücheli M, Studer K, Türk DA, Meboldt M, Gassert R, Lambercy O. Development of VariLeg, an exoskeleton with variable stiffness actuation: first results and user evaluation from the CYBATHLON 2016. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2018. [PMID: 29534730 PMCID: PMC5851253 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-018-0360-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Powered exoskeletons are a promising approach to restore the ability to walk after spinal cord injury (SCI). However, current exoskeletons remain limited in their walking speed and ability to support tasks of daily living, such as stair climbing or overcoming ramps. Moreover, training progress for such advanced mobility tasks is rarely reported in literature. The work presented here aims to demonstrate the basic functionality of the VariLeg exoskeleton and its ability to enable people with motor complete SCI to perform mobility tasks of daily life. METHODS VariLeg is a novel powered lower limb exoskeleton that enables adjustments to the compliance in the leg, with the objective of improving the robustness of walking on uneven terrain. This is achieved by an actuation system with variable mechanical stiffness in the knee joint, which was validated through test bench experiments. The feasibility and usability of the exoskeleton was tested with two paraplegic users with motor complete thoracic lesions at Th4 and Th12. The users trained three times a week, in 60 min sessions over four months with the aim of participating in the CYBATHLON 2016 competition, which served as a field test for the usability of the exoskeleton. The progress on basic walking skills and on advanced mobility tasks such as incline walking and stair climbing is reported. Within this first study, the exoskeleton was used with a constant knee stiffness. RESULTS Test bench evaluation of the variable stiffness actuation system demonstrate that the stiffness could be rendered with an error lower than 30 Nm/rad. During training with the exoskeleton, both users acquired proficient skills in basic balancing, walking and slalom walking. In advanced mobility tasks, such as climbing ramps and stairs, only basic (needing support) to intermediate (able to perform task independently in 25% of the attempts) skill levels were achieved. After 4 months of training, one user competed at the CYBATHLON 2016 and was able to perform 3 (stand-sit-stand, slalom and tilted path) out of 6 obstacles of the track. No adverse events occurred during the training or the competition. CONCLUSION Demonstration of the applicability to restore ambulation for people with motor complete SCI was achieved. The CYBATHLON highlighted the importance of training and gaining experience in piloting an exoskeleton, which were just as important as the technical realization of the robot.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan O Schrade
- Product Development Group Zurich, ETH Zurich, Leonhardstrasse 21, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland.
| | - Katrin Dätwyler
- Rehabilitation Engineering Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Lengghalde 5, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Marius Stücheli
- Rehabilitation Engineering Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Lengghalde 5, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Kathrin Studer
- Product Development Group Zurich, ETH Zurich, Leonhardstrasse 21, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Daniel-Alexander Türk
- Rehabilitation Engineering Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Lengghalde 5, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Mirko Meboldt
- Product Development Group Zurich, ETH Zurich, Leonhardstrasse 21, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Roger Gassert
- Product Development Group Zurich, ETH Zurich, Leonhardstrasse 21, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Olivier Lambercy
- Rehabilitation Engineering Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Lengghalde 5, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
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Maguire CC, Sieben JM, De Bie RA. Movement goals encoded within the cortex and muscle synergies to reduce redundancy pre and post-stroke. The relevance for gait rehabilitation and the prescription of walking-aids. A literature review and scholarly discussion. Physiother Theory Pract 2018; 35:1-14. [PMID: 29400592 DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2018.1434579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Current knowledge of neural and neuromuscular processes controlling gait and movement as well as an understanding of how these mechanisms change following stroke is an important basis for the development of effective rehabilitation interventions. To support the translation of findings from basic research into useful treatments in clinical practice, up-to-date neuroscience should be presented in forms accessible to all members of the multidisciplinary team. In this review we discuss aspects of cortical control of gait and movement, muscle synergies as a way of translating cortical commands into specific muscle activity and as an efficient means of reducing neural and musculoskeletal redundancy. We discuss how these mechanisms change following stroke, potential consequences for gait rehabilitation, and the prescription and use of walking-aids as well as areas requiring further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare C Maguire
- a Department of Physiotherapy, BZG Bildungszentrum Gesundheit Basel-Stadt , Munchenstein , Switzerland.,b Health Division , Bern University of Applied Science , Bern , Switzerland.,c Caphri Research School , Maastricht University , Maastricht , the Netherlands
| | - Judith M Sieben
- c Caphri Research School , Maastricht University , Maastricht , the Netherlands.,d Department of Anatomy and Embryology , Maastricht University , Maastricht , the Netherlands
| | - Robert A De Bie
- c Caphri Research School , Maastricht University , Maastricht , the Netherlands.,e Department of Epidemiology , Maastricht University , Maastricht , the Netherlands
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Lacquaniti F, Ivanenko YP, Sylos-Labini F, La Scaleia V, La Scaleia B, Willems PA, Zago M. Human Locomotion in Hypogravity: From Basic Research to Clinical Applications. Front Physiol 2017; 8:893. [PMID: 29163225 PMCID: PMC5682019 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
We have considerable knowledge about the mechanisms underlying compensation of Earth gravity during locomotion, a knowledge obtained from physiological, biomechanical, modeling, developmental, comparative, and paleoanthropological studies. By contrast, we know much less about locomotion and movement in general under sustained hypogravity. This lack of information poses a serious problem for human space exploration. In a near future humans will walk again on the Moon and for the first time on Mars. It would be important to predict how they will move around, since we know that locomotion and mobility in general may be jeopardized in hypogravity, especially when landing after a prolonged weightlessness of the space flight. The combination of muscle weakness, of wearing a cumbersome spacesuit, and of maladaptive patterns of locomotion in hypogravity significantly increase the risk of falls and injuries. Much of what we currently know about locomotion in hypogravity derives from the video archives of the Apollo missions on the Moon, the experiments performed with parabolic flight or with body weight support on Earth, and the theoretical models. These are the topics of our review, along with the issue of the application of simulated hypogravity in rehabilitation to help patients with deambulation problems. We consider several issues that are common to the field of space science and clinical rehabilitation: the general principles governing locomotion in hypogravity, the methods used to reduce gravity effects on locomotion, the extent to which the resulting behavior is comparable across different methods, the important non-linearities of several locomotor parameters as a function of the gravity reduction, the need to use multiple methods to obtain reliable results, and the need to tailor the methods individually based on the physiology and medical history of each person.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Lacquaniti
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Center of Space BioMedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Yury P. Ivanenko
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Sylos-Labini
- Center of Space BioMedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina La Scaleia
- Center of Space BioMedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara La Scaleia
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrick A. Willems
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Physiology of Locomotion, Institute of NeuroScience, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Myrka Zago
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
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Anglister L, Cherniak M, Lev-Tov A. Ascending pathways that mediate cholinergic modulation of lumbar motor activity. J Neurochem 2017; 142 Suppl 2:82-89. [PMID: 28791705 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Deciphering neuronal pathways that reactivate spinal central pattern generators (CPGs) and modulate the activity of spinal motoneurons in mammals in the absence of supraspinal control is important for understanding of neural control of movement and for developing novel therapeutic approaches to improve the mobility of spinal cord injury patients. Previously, we showed that the sacral and lumbar cholinergic system could potently modulate the locomotor CPGs in newborn rodents. Here, we review these and our more recent studies of sacral relay neurons with lumbar projections to the locomotor CPGs and to lumbar motoneurons and demonstrate that sacral and lumbar cholinergic components have the capacity to control the frequency of the locomotor CPGs and at the same time the motor output of the activated lumbar motoneurons during motor behavior. A model describing the suggested ascending sacro-lumbar connectivity involved in modulation of the locomotor rhythm by sacral cholinergic components is proposed and discussed. This is an article for the special issue XVth International Symposium on Cholinergic Mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Anglister
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, IMRIC, the Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Meir Cherniak
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, IMRIC, the Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Aharon Lev-Tov
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, IMRIC, the Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
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