Citation

Tan AQ, Barth S, Trumbower RD. Curr. Phys. Med. Rehabil. Rep. 2020; 8(3): 188-198.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2020, Holtzbrinck Springer Nature Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1007/s40141-020-00270-8

PMID

33738145

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The reacquisition and preservation of walking ability are highly valued goals in spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation. Recurrent episodes of breathing low oxygen (i.e., acute intermittent hypoxia, AIH) is a potential therapy to promote walking recovery after incomplete SCI via endogenous mechanisms of neuroplasticity. Here, we report on the progress of AIH, alone or paired with other treatments, on walking recovery in persons with incomplete SCI. We evaluate the evidence of AIH as a therapy ready for clinical and home use and the real and perceived challenges that may interfere with this possibility. RECENT FINDINGS: Repetitive AIH is a safe and an efficacious treatment to enhance strength, walking speed and endurance, as well as, dynamic balance in persons with chronic, incomplete SCI. SUMMARY: The potential for AIH as a treatment for SCI remains high, but further research is necessary to understand treatment targets and effectiveness in a large cohort of persons with SCI.

Language: en

Keywords

rehabilitation; spinal cord injury; acute intermittent hypoxia; low oxygen; plasticity; walking