The effect of sling exercise therapy on the balance and walking ability of persons with incomplete paraplegia

Objective To explore the effect of sling exercise therapy (SET) for improving the balance and walking ability of patients with incomplete paraplegia. Methods The 37 patients were randomly divided into two groups: 19 patients in the observation group and 18 cases in the control group. Both groups were given conventional rehabilitation training, including bridge training on the mat, kneeling position training, sit-stand training and orthosis walking training. The observation group was additionally provided with sling exercise therapy with multi-point, multi-axis sling suspension supine, prone with a neutral lumbar spine, supine with pelvic elevation and in a lateral position like an arch. Before the treatment and 6 weeks after the treatment, trunk control tests (TCTs) were administered. The Berg balance scale (BBS) and Holden′s walking function classification were used to assess the subjects′ balance and walking ability. Results There were no significant differences in the two groups′ average TCT and BBS scores before the treatment. After 6 weeks of treatment the average scores of both groups had increased significantly, with a significantly bigger increase observed in the observation group. After the treatment, the average Holden classification of the observation group was significantly superior to that of the control group. Conclusion SET in addition to conventional rehabilitation training can significantly improve the balance and walking ability of patients with incomplete paraplegia. It is worthy of application in clinical practice. Key words: Sling exercise therapy; Paraplegia; Balance; Walking ability