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DIAGNOSIS AND INITIAL FUNCTIONAL ABILITIES
Tom is a 38-year old male who survived a riding lawnmower accident one-year prior to his initial evaluation at
the NeuroTherapeutics Program. Tom sustained injuries that resulted in severe decreases in movement and strength
in his lower back and lower extremities. His physician felt that he would not regain the ability to move his legs and
diagnosed the injury as paraplegia at the L2 level.
GOALS
During Tom's initial evaluation, he demonstrated voluntary hip and left knee movement and demonstrated ability to
increase EMG signals to the paraspinal muscles. The treatment team established Tom as an excellent candidate for
the program.
Individualized goals included further increasing useable EMG signals (alternative neuro pathways) to
the paraspinal muscles, improving seated balance, reducing risk of falls, and transferring independently from a
seated to standing position. Tom's personal goal was to re-learn independent walking skills.
PROGRAM
An individualized treatment plan was established and consisted of:
- EMG biofeedback to establish an increased neuro pathway to the back and both legs.
- Physical therapy to help him learn to use the newly establish neuro pathways for increased muscle strength and movement.
OUTCOME
After completing seven treatment sessions of EMG biofeedback and physical therapy, Tom has made significant gains
in muscle strength and movement allowing him to surpass initial goals. He goes from sit to stand by himself when
sturdy furniture is available and increased leg strength enables him to sustain a standing position.
Additionally, he is able to walk up to 10 feet utilizing a walker and bilateral lower extremity braces with
moderate assistance of two therapists to help guide the walker and stabilize the knees. Tom is continuing with the
Program and remains confident that he will walk again - independently.
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