Feasibility Study for the Use of Low-magnitude, High Frequency Mechanical Stimulation of Bone in Persons With Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)

In persons with SCI, because of inherent considerations, the use of mechanical stimulation has not been studied to determine improvement in bone mass. To achieve maximum transmission of the vibration from a vibrating plate to the lower body, the legs must be extended and the feet firmly placed against the surface plate of the device. Thus, these logistical considerations must be addressed to perform this mechanical intervention in persons with SCI. In those with complete or almost complete motor injury, there is lack of musculoskeletal function below the level of the lesion, which would prevent rigid straight leg extension and pressing one's feet against a surface, regardless of the angle of tilt that would permit adequate transmission of impulse in an able-bodied individual (preliminary data). However, in one subject with SCI, there was measurable, albeit low level, transmission of vibration with increasing angles of tilt (preliminary data). Because of the ability to transmit some signal in an individual with complete SCI, the possibility exists that with forms or mechanical support/manipulation, greater signal transmission may be possible. The study will be able to determine the best angle to transmit mechanical vibration through the lower body of SCI patients.