Combined Tactile and Proprioception Training After Spinal Cord Injury

A novel rehabilitation bike has been developed for patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries that incorporates mechanical stimulators on the bike pedals to stimulate the sensory receptors in the soles of the feet; the effect of mechanical stimulator on muscle strengthening has been reported by NASA to improve muscle atrophy in astronauts in zero-gravity environments. Cycling also stimulates lower limb position sensors. We predict that the combination of mechanical stimulation with cycling may be similar enough to walking over ground to lead to gains in balance and mobility. The present study will evaluate the therapeutic effect of this bike on balance, walking, as well as cortical-spinal and spinal pathways in patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries.