Investigating the Impact of Spinal Cord Electrical Stimulation Combined With Individualized Physical Therapy on Lower Extremity Function in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury

Investigating the Impact of Spinal Cord Electrical Stimulation Combined With Individualized Physical Therapy on Lower Extremity Function in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury

This study aims to understand the differences in the effects of two rehabilitation approaches on lower limb function recovery in patients with spinal cord injuries:

1. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) combined with one-on-one physical therapy
2. One-on-one physical therapy alone

This study adopts a prospective controlled design to observe and explore the effect of SCS combined with one-on-one physical therapy on the recovery of lower limb function in patients with spinal cord injury. The aims is to collect clinical practice data and provide reference for future related treatment strategies and care, hoping to increase the treatment options for rehabilitation of patients with spinal cord injury and improve their functional performance and quality of life.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged between 20 and 70 years.
• Diagnosed with spinal cord injury, classified as ASIA Grade A-D.
• Neurological level of injury between T1 and L2.
• Spinal cord injury has stabilized (for at least 3 months).
• Currently receiving standard treatment at Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital and referred by a neurosurgeon or orthopedic surgeon to receive spinal cord stimulation (SCS) and/or individualized physical therapy.
• Capable of participating in one-on-one physical therapy sessions 3 to 5 times per week, and assessed by the medical team as able to complete at least a 3 weeks course of treatment.
• Fully conscious, able to understand the study information, and willing to sign the consent form and participate in the full assessment process.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals with severe brain injury, neurodegenerative diseases, or other major neurological disorders.
• Those with severe fractures, joint contractures, or conditions preventing participation in lower limb training.
• Individuals with a cardiac pacemaker or who are pregnant.
• Those unable to comply with the treatment or assessment procedures.