BODY-WEIGHT SUPPORTED TREADMILL TRAINING COMBINED WITH ELECTRICAL MUSCLE STIMULATION EFFECTIVE IN IMPROVING LOCOMOTION AFTER INCOMPLETE SPINAL CORD INJURY: A CASE STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: Although body weight supported treadmill training (BWSTT) and electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) have demonstrated substantial efficacy as standalone interventions, their combined therapeutic potential remains underexplored. This study investigates the synergistic effects of BWSTT and EMS on locomotor and functional recovery in a patient with incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI).

Material & Methods: A 47-year-old male with an L2 ASIA C SCI from a T12 fracture presented with significant lower limb weakness. Initial assessments showed a WISCI-II score of 9, 6MWT distance of 30 meters, 10MWT speed of 0.074 m/s, and a SCIM score of 43/100. Rehabilitation included 12 weeks of BWSTT (three 60-minute sessions/week) and EMS (twice daily on alternate days), targeting lower limb muscles.

Results: At the 6th-week of reassessment, the patient's neurological level improved to L3 ASIA C, with increases in WISCI-II (12), 6MWT (50 meters) and improved 10MWT speed (0.15 meter/seconds). By the 12-week mark, the WISCI-II increased to 18, 6MWT to 125 meters, and 10MWT increased to 0.58 m/s. The SCIM score increased significantly to 91/100.

Conclusion: The combination of BWSTT and EMS in rehabilitation improved locomotion, endurance, and independence in an incomplete SCI patient, highlighting the need for further research.