The present study will analyze if exercise is able to elicit the well-known anti-atherogenic effects in patients with SCI. This will be evaluated by measuring vascular parameters such as endothelial and inflammatory blood markers, echocardiography of the heart and peripheral vessels, as well as blood pressure and arterial stiffness, in subjects performing either wheelchair dancing, wheelchair marathon or no sports. Further, it will be investigated, whether there is an association between neuroplasticity and cardiovascular health, as measured by electroencephalography (EEG), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and blood levels of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). We hypothesize that the cardiovascular, physical and psychological benefits of wheelchair dancing and/or wheelchair marathon parallel improved neuroplasticity in SCI-patients
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
54
Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler Klinik, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg
Salzburg, Austria
Department of Sports Medicine, Prevention and Rehabilitation Paracelsus Medical University
Salzburg, Austria
comparison of cardiovascular risk factors between different study groups
measurement for arterial stiffness parameters, via pulse wave analysis. Comparison between healthy individuals and patients using wheelchairs (three different groups).
Time frame: October 2017- June 2018
Evaluation of echocardiography results between different study groups
Evaluation of echocardiography comparing healthy individuals and patients using wheelchairs (three different groups).
Time frame: October 2017- June 2018
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