Treadmill training after spinal cord injury: It's not just about the walking

Abstract

Body weight-supported treadmill training (BWSTT) is being used throughout the world as a method for improving functional ambulation after spinal cord injury (SCI). This therapy, however, is very labor-intensive, and recent evidence suggests that it may not be superior to other more conventional forms of rehabilitation for improving locomotor ability. Recognizing that the value of BWSTT may extend well beyond its potential to improve functional ambulation is important, and the physiological and psychological benefits associated with this whole-body upright exercise may justify its use in both the acute and chronic SCI populations.