Health problems by spinal cord injury
A spinal cord injury results mostly in a reduction or even completely loss of muscle function and sensitivity. Besides a decrease of the cardiovascular condition, leads such a form of chronic muscular inactivity to changes alteration in muscles and peripheral circulation. Research has shown that the muscular system undergoes characteristic changes as muscle atrophy, a reduction of the oxidative capacity and a shift in muscle fibre composition. The so-called Type II, “fast twitch” fibre will predominate. The peripheral blood flow decreases by atrophy of the blood vessel bed (Hopman 1996) and of the myocardium (Kessler 1986). This leads to a risk increase of pressure ulcers. It has also been shown that the bone density decreases, which increases the risk of osteoporosis significantly. The reduced overall circulation could lead to digestion problems, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
FES (Functional Electrical Stimulation)
The use of FES has beneficial effects on paralysed limbs. One of the major impacts is the increase in blood flow in the stimulated muscles. People with a spinal cord injury usually have to do with pressure ulcers. During the rehabilitation period, they are taught to handle their skin with care, particularly of the lower extremities. Because of inactivity, the blood flow in the lower extremities diminishes. The stiffness and vulnerabilities are increasing. By moving passively, some blood can flow slightly again, but not comparable with the increase when using FES. Through FES the muscle pump is put back into operation. An improved blood flow is not only important for the prevention of pressure ulcers, but also enhances the healing of it.
More information:
Indications / Contra Indications
The BerkelBike Impuls is primarily designed for people with complete upper motor neuron paraplegia. Read on …
Testing
The muscles, that should be tested, are the hamstring, quadriceps and gluteus maximus. Read on …
Developments FES
The general view was that the stimulation of degenerated muscles are impossible. Read on …
Life expectancy
The life expectancy of people with paraplegia. Read on …
Literature
For visitors to www.BerkelBike.co.uk a subscription to Refshare has been taken. Read on …
In the United Kingdom, BerkelBike has two dealers (see Contact). The prices in the UK are displayed in document Price list (PDF).
If you’re considering purchasing the Impuls system with your BerkelBike, we strongly advise you to contact BerkelBike BV
to discuss the suitability of this system for you. Also see Physicians and Therapists link.
