A spinal cord injury may result in partial or complete impairment to the structures at and below the site of the injury. According to the MayoClinic.com, not all spinal cord injuries lead to in paralysis; some injured individuals may be able to stand and walk with assistance, depending on the location and severity of the injury. People with spinal cord injuries may suffer complications from immobility including circulatory and respiratory problems and weight gain. An exercise program can help you maintain a healthy weight and prevent other complications. If you have a with spinal cord injury consult a physician and physical therapist before beginning an exercise program.
Exercises for Mild Impairment
If you have a mild impairment you may be able to walk and stand with assistance, such as with a walker or crutches. You may be able to use several machines at the gym, per the National Center of Physical Activity and Disability. Aerobic machines, such as the elliptical trainer and stepper, require you to stand; however, you may be able to use these machines if your legs can support your weight or you can support your weight with the hand rails. Stationary bikes and rowing machines allow you to raise your heart rate while seated. With water exercises, the buoyancy of water supports your body weight as you move. Many strength training machines, such as the chest press and lat pull, allow you to work seated while other machines, such as that used for the standing glute extension, allow you to work standing while providing hand holds and support.
Exercises for Moderate Impairment
If you are moderately impaired you may not be able to walk but may have total or partial mobility in your arms and hands. As with individuals with mild impairment, you may be able to use some gym machines, such as chest and shoulder press machines. You may also be able to use dumbbells and resistance bands in addition to the seated exercise machines. Hand cycle machines allow you to use your arms to raise your pulse rate in place of your hands. Additionally, you can use your wheelchair to exercise by participating in wheelchair sports such as racing, basketball and even tennis.
Exercises for Severe Impairment
If you have a severe impairment, such as total paralysis, you may need to do assisted exercises with a physical therapist. According to the Spinal Cord Injury Information Network, assisted exercises may include raising your legs and/or arms above your head to increase your heart rate. A therapist may also incorporate water work either by supporting you in the water or using a specially designed water chair.
References
- National Center on Physical Activity and Disability: Spinal Cord Injury and Exercise
- Go Ask Alice: Spinal Cord Injury, No Mobility, How can I Lose Weight?
- Spinal Cord Injury Information Network: Exercise After SCI
- Physiotherapy Exercises: Physiotherapy Exercises for People with Spinal Cord Injury
- Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Spinal Cord Injury: Exercise and SCI
- MayoClinic.com: Spinal Cord Injury
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