Standing Ability after SCI Research
The research team at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Sydney, in conjunction with Prince of Wales Medical Research Institute, are conducting a project to investigate the use of strength training, supported by electrical muscle stimulation (FES), to improve the functional abilities of people with SCI.
Many people with incomplete SCI have some ability to stand for short periods. However this is often insufficient for functional independence, such as safely reaching or using equipment. Sometimes they may have inadequate endurance to permit them to stand with confidence or to allow them to repeat the movement.
In an NHMRC funded study, the research team are comparing two different FES applications to increase leg muscle strength and so to improve functional standing abilities. It is hoped that this approach may eventually allow a home-based training exercise program and the use of FES to support standing in the kitchen, bathroom or other places around the home.
The study involves training using FES cycling and there are a number of standing tests and some tests of nerve conduction which will be carried out before and after the training. Most of the tests and the training take place at the Lidcombe (Cumberland) Campus of the University.
The research team includes Associate Professors Jack Crosbie, Glen Davis and James Middleton from the University of Sydney and Dr. Jane Butler from POWMRI.
The team are keen to hear from anyone with SCI who is interested in taking part in the study. You are eligible to participate if you are:
- 18–65 years of age;
- have had a spinal cord injury resulting in incomplete paralysis;
- are able to stand, with assistance if necessary, for short periods; and
- have no other medical problems
You would be required to attend the laboratory at University of Sydney Lidcombe Campus for approximately 2 months, three times per week for measurement and training. Each session will take around 1½ hours. Travel costs will be reimbursed.
If you are interested, please contact Annie Butler (POWMRI) (02 9399 1021; a.butler@powmri.edu.au), Iza Tanhoffer (Lidcombe) (02 9351 9246) or Jack Crosbie (02 9351 9180).
