Benefits of 1-year home training with FES cycling in paraplegia during Covid-19 crisis: case report

ABSTRACT The purpose of this observational study was to report the experience of a one-year home training with Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) cycling of a person with T4 AIS A paraplegia for 9 years, homebound due to the Covid 19 health crisis. The 40-year-old participant had a 3-phase training: V1: isometric stimulation, V2: FES-cycling for 3 sessions/week, and V3: FES-cycling for 2 to 4 sessions/week. Data on general and physical tolerance, health impact and performance were collected. Borg score relating to fatigue was 10.1 before training and 11.8 after training. The average score for satisfaction at the end of sessions was 8.7. Lean leg mass increased more than 29%, although total bone mineral density dropped by 1.6%. The ventilatory thresholds increased from 19.5 to 29% and VEmax increased by 9.5%. Rosenberg's self-esteem score returned to its highest level by the end of training. For the only track event on a competition bike, the pilot covered a distance of 1607.8 m in 17'49". When FES cycling training is based on a clear and structured protocol, it offers the person with paraplegia the opportunity to practice this activity recreationally and athletically. In times of crisis, this training has proven to be very relevant.