A sedentary lifestyle increases the likelihood of cardiovascular disease, muscle wasting, osteoporosis, decubitus ulcers and peripheral vascular problems.

We know that maintaining physical activity following spinal cord injury can be challenging, but also very rewarding by improving health and keeping these challenges at bay.

Although FES Cycling is now a proven method of maintaining health the scientific literature is not yet able to give complete guidance on optimising exercise protocols following spinal injury.  We do know that FES cycling appears to be best utilised for developing endurance as opposed to strength.

This article discusses a rational approach to exercise with FES Cycling - including the required frequency, duration and intensity of effort required for health gains.

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Spasticity or muscle spasms are experienced by many individuals who have had a spinal cord injury.  When there is spasticity, there is always paresis or plegia.  And spasticity leads to  muscle atrophy (weakening) caused by immobility.  Although the damage to the upper motor neurons is irreversible, the act of cycling -  combining a motorised ergometer and stimulator such as the RehaMove systems, can be effective in reducing spasticity.

Spasticity leads to muscle shortening, contractures and fundamental changes in muscle structure.  Because cycling demands coordinated motion of both limbs and all of the limb joints as well as periods of muscle contraction and stretching, this activity seems to dampen down a tendency toward spasticity.  At first, cycling may not be possible as a fluent, smooth activity. Spasticity may tend to block motion so the RehaMove system has built-in systems to manage this occurence.

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