Synchronous Tele-Resistance Training to Improve Upper Extremity Function in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury

Hacer Önen Tekin21 enrolled

Overview

This study investigated the effects of resistive exercises applied with synchronized telerehabilitation on upper extremity functions in patients with SCI who use wheelchairs. A randomized controlled trial included 21 patients with SCI between the ages of between18 and 60. Participants were divided into two groups: the Study Group (n=11) and the Control Group (n=10). Participants in the study group applied resistive exercise with a synchronized telerehabilitation method, while participants in the control group applied a home exercise program. The upper extremity muscle strength of the participants was evaluated with hand-held dynamometer before and after the treatment, physical performance with a 20-meter push test, and physical activity level with Physical Activity Scale for Disabled Individuals.

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

DOUBLE

Enrollment

Conditions

Spinal Cord Injury

Interventions

Participants received synchronous telerehabilitation sessions three times per week for six weeks. Each session lasted 45 minutes and included supervised resistance exercises for upper extremity muscle groups. Exercise bands were chosen based on baseline strength. Pulse oximeters were used to monitor heart rate and oxygen saturation.

Home Exercise ProgramBEHAVIORAL

Participants were given a home-based, unsupervised exercise program to follow three times per week for six weeks. The exercises were taught at the beginning, and adherence was monitored using a physical activity diary. No tele-supervision was provided.

Eligibility

Sex: ALLHealthy volunteers:

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * Aged between 18 and 60 years * Diagnosed with spinal cord injury classified as ASIA A, B, or C * Cooperative and able to follow verbal instructions * Has access to online communication devices * Partially or fully dependent on a wheelchair * Sufficient upper extremity strength to operate a wheelchair * Has not undergone surgery in the past 6 months * Willing to participate and provided informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Unwilling or unmotivated to participate * Presence of a progressive disease * Fully bedridden * Significant cognitive impairment

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Change in upper extremity muscle strength measured by hand-held dynamometer

Muscle strength of the shoulder flexors, extensors, abductors, and wrist flexors and extensors will be measured bilaterally using a hand-held dynamometer. The outcome is reported in Newtons (N).

Time frame: Baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention