Intensive Exercise Therapy
There is mounting evidence that a comprehensive exercise program including stimulation of the paralysed limbs can promote neural recovery and good health, and reduce secondary complications such as pressure ulcers, and fractures. Innovative “activity-based therapies” have been shown to restore neurological function and are based on principles of experimental psychology, exercise physiology and neuroscience.
In Australia considerable effort is directed towards maximizing independence through compensatory strategies using the non-paralysed limbs, especially in people with clinically complete injuries. In part this has been the result of the prevailing paradigm that only limited recovery is possible following spinal cord injury. However, the therapy resources in Australian spinal rehabilitation units are also insufficient to provide comprehensive exercise programs beyond the initial period of rehabilitation for people with spinal cord injury.
Professor Mary Galea - Professor of Clinical Physiotherapy Director, Rehabilitation Sciences Research Centre, Austin Health June 2007
Full report here: PDF Professor Mary Galea
