Why do spinal cord injury patients need exercise?

Physical activity is important for all of us. Exercise reduces the risk of developing chronic health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes   and even some forms of cancer. For people with a spinal cord injury there can be added health benefits. If you are able to be physically active, you have a lower risk of developing secondary complications such as urinary tract infections, pressure sores and respiratory illness. Physical activity can also help you better manage problems such as spasticity, weight gain and chronic pain. It can help improve your strength and endurance, which in turn can improve your ability to accomplish everyday tasks such as transferring and pushing a manual wheelchair. In addition,   research has now shown that people who are physically active are less likely to experience feelings of anxiety, loneliness and depression.  

Adjusting to life after a spinal cord injury is difficult. Exercise not only contributes to continuing rehabilitation   but also to a healthy lifestyle. Attending a fitness centre or taking part in a sport or recreational activity provides an opportunity to meet people, have fun and provide a real   sense of accomplishment. This psychological aspect of exercise can be a great motivational tool for everyone and can go a long way in improving overall quality of life.

Exercise for individuals with a spinal cord injury can be divided into three broad categories: 

> Aerobic exercise to maintain cardiovascular health 

> Strength-based training to maintain the ability to perform activities of daily living and mobility,   as well as preventing injury from muscle weakness or imbalance 

> Flexibility training to improve range of motion and reduce spasticity. 

Currently, exercise is the only known intervention that can have lasting effects on function after a spinal cord injury, both in promoting neural recovery and in reducing   secondary complications. The role of physical activity on neuroplasticity (the ability of nerve cells to regenerate and make new connections) and improving functional recovery is fast becoming a key area of research.