Effects of rehabilitation exercise programs on respiratory function, muscle strength, and exercise performance ability in individuals with spinal cord injury

Background: and aim: The issue of respiratory function is important for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). In particular, developing an exercise program that improves respiratory function is necessary for them. We will develop a program to enhance cardiopulmonary exercise function in individuals with SCI and evaluate its effectiveness to provide evidence to guide the development of future exercise programs. Methods: A rehabilitation exercise program was developed, incorporating respiratory, muscle strength, and aerobic exercises, adapted to the physical characteristics of individuals with SCI. Twenty-two individuals with SCI who resided in metropolitan areas of South Korea participated in the program. Following the intervention, their respiratory function, muscle strength, and exercise performance ability were evaluated. Results: The experimental group (EXP) showed significant improvements in various indices compared to the control group (CON). In terms of respiratory function, the following changes were observed: VC increased by 0.7±0.5 L, FVC 0.5±0.6 L, FEF 0.9±1.4 L/s (p<0.05). In terms of muscle strength, changes in the significant shoulder muscles were as follows: shoulder flexion increased by 3.0±1.2 N (right), 3.2±1.2 N (left); shoulder extension 2.9±2.2 N (right), 3.3±2.1 N (left) (p<0.05). NetVO2 in the EXP increased by 2.7±1.3 ml/kg/min (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study analyzed the combined effects of respiratory, muscle strength, and aerobic exercise, yielding concrete results in improving cardiopulmonary exercise function. The study also proposed an effective exercise strategy for individuals with SCI.