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Spasticity changes in SCI following a dynamic standing program using the Segway
Spinal Cord, 05/24/2012
Exclusive author commentary
Boutilier G et al. – There is little evidence to suggest that these beneficial outcomes may have lasting effects. Dynamic standing on the Segway may be effective for short–term spasticity reduction and decreased pain and fatigue.
Dr B Sawatzky (06/06/2012) comments:
This was an exciting and novel study to explore if what we saw in prior studies was in fact something real rather just a phenomenon in one or two people. We found for all participants with spinal cord injury that spasticity did reduce after being on a segway for 30 min. We are now studying whether it is the standing alone on a segway, the rocking motion or these plus the increased stimulation and distraction of driving around that may contribute to this benefit for those with SCI. In any case it has been an interesting and fun study to work on.