Cardiorespiratory Fitness Training in Patients with Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury
Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
The goal of this exploratory randomized controlled trial is to assess the effect of a personalized training intervention during primary rehabilitation of 6 weeks on cardiorespiratory fitness in individuals with subacute (\<6 months) spinal cord injury during primary rehabilitation and during follow-up. Secondary outcomes include the effect on gait assessments, pulmonary function, neurological status, muscle force, cardiometabolic risk factors, quality of life, functional independence and self-efficacy. Participants in the intervention group will receive 2-3 personalized cardiorespiratory fitness-focused training sessions per week, for a period of 6 weeks. Participants in the control group will receive usual care.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of incomplete spinal cord injury based on a stable cause (e.g. traumatic) * Spinal cord injury classification C or D on the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) impairment scale * During this study in the subacute phase (\< 6 months post injury) * Hospitalized in the Sint Maartenskliniek for a primary, inpatient rehabilitation program * Older than 18 years of age * Able to understand and perform study related procedures * Capable to sit at least 3 times a day for 2 hours (prerequisites to start the active rehabilitation program) * The ability to use an arm ergometer Exclusion Criteria: * Unable to give informed consent * Language barrier * Participating in another interventional study targeting cardiorespiratory fitness * Have contraindications to perform exercise during the rehabilitation program