Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Objective. To investigate the effect of interval training supported by Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) on ambulation ability in complete spinal cord injury (SCI). Methods. We trained four men with sensorimotor-complete (ASIA A) SCI, who achieved gait through FES of the quadriceps femoris, gluteus maximus, and common peroneal nerve on each side on a motorized treadmill. Training involved progressive interval walking exercise, consisting of periods of activity followed by equal periods of rest, repeated until muscle fatigue. ⋯ Some subjects increased the total distance walked by as much as 300% with progressive improvement over the entire training period; however, others made more modest gains and appeared to reach a performance plateau within a few training sessions. Conclusions. FES-supported interval training offers a useful and effective strategy for strength-endurance improvement in the large muscle groups of the lower limb in motor-complete SCI. We believe that this training protocol offers a viable alternative to that of continuous walking training in people with SCI using FES to aid ambulation.
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Introduction. Chronic pain is a prevalent medical condition in the general population and is one of the most common reasons patients visit their primary care doctors. When the pain is resistant to the common treatment modalities, it presents a challenge for the physician and may have profound consequences for the quality of life of the patient. ⋯ The patients reported decreased use of pain medications, increased quality of life, and high satisfaction with the procedure results. Conclusion. The use of subcutaneous peripheral nerve stimulation as a viable treatment alternative in certain cases of chronic neuropathic pain should continue to be rigorously evaluated.
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Objectives. We submit a retrospective analysis of results of eight patients suffering from intractable pain of established or suspected thalamic origin. These patients were treated with spinal cord stimulation (SCS) in the cervical or dorsal cord. No patient was suffering pain from a complete hemibody or facial area. ⋯ Two patients had a further stroke: One died and one was cured from pain. Good-to-excellent results were attained in six patients; long-term good-to-excellent results were maintained in three patients. Conclusions. Despite previous adverse reports, certain cases of thalamic pain can be effectively alleviated through SCS.