Comparison of two types of strengthening exercises in upper limbs for improvement of wheelchair propulsion in paraplegics

Abstract

Introduction: A reduction in physical activity due to spinal cord injury leads to deconditioning and increased dependency. Manual wheelchair propulsion is a straining form of ambulation and propulsion is based on the use of upper extremities, which are usually capable of producing less force with less effi ciency. Theraband can be an exercise mode, which resembles wheelchair activity. Mat exercises are also given for strengthening of upper limb muscles in persons with paraplegia. The aim of this study is to compare effects of both elastic resistance strength training and strengthening by mat activity of upper limb muscles on wheelchair propulsion effi ciency in persons with paraplegia. Materials and Method:The selected subjects were randomly assigned into Theraband and Mat exercise groups with 15 subjects each. Theraband group received theraband strengthening of wheelchair propulsion muscles, whereas mat activity group received mat strengthening of wheelchair propulsion muscles. Total duration of treatment was 5 days per week for 5 weeks. Results:Results of the study showed both mat exercise and theraband groups showed signifi cant improvement in wheelchair 15 meter sprint test and wheelchair propulsion for 50 meters in paraplegics due to spinal cord injury. However, theraband group showed signifi cantly more improvement. Conclusion:The study revealed that theraband exercises for improving upper limb strength for wheelchair propulsion is superior to strengthening through mat exercise. Keywords: Mat Activities; Paraplegia; Theraband; Wheelchair propulsion Limitations: Small sample size, no control group and no follow-up was taken and standardized procedures for testing wheelchair specifi c fi tness was not used. ResearchFuture Suggestions: Large sample size can be taken; same type of study can be conducted on individuals with complete versus incomplete paraplegia, with higher paraplegia versus lower paraplegia. A follow-up study after withdrawing strengthening exercises can be done to establish the carry-over effect of theraband exercises. Standardized instrumented wheelchair specifi c testing can be used.How to cite this article: Satyavanshi A, Pattnaik M, Mohanty P. Comparison of two types of strengthening exercises in upper limbs for improvement of wheelchair propulsion in paraplegics. J Nov Physiother