Affiliations: Department of Physical Therapy, Jefferson School of
Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA | Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation,
University of California Davis Medical Center, Davis, CA, USA
Note: [] Corresponding author: Therese E. Johnston, Department of
Physical Therapy, Jefferson School of Health Professions, 901 Walnut Street,
Room 515, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. Tel.: +1 215 503 6033; E-mail:
therese.johnston@jefferson.edu
Abstract: Children with spinal cord injury (SCI) are at risk for the same
health related complications experienced by adults with SCI; however, children
are likely at increased risk due to the young age at which the injury was
sustained. Common health related complications impact the cardiovascular,
respiratory, and musculoskeletal systems, increasing the risk of cardiovascular
disease, metabolic syndrome, and fractures, as well as impacting the ability to
complete everyday tasks. The available literature shows that children and
adults with SCI have a high prevalence of metabolic syndrome and decreased
muscle mass, resting energy expenditure, peak oxygen consumption, and bone
mineral density. Exercise may have an impact on these complications, thus
increasing overall health and fitness. Some literature is available on the
effects of exercise for adults with SCI, but few studies have examined these
effects for children. Pediatric and adult studies have shown some positive
effects on muscle mass, resting energy expenditure, peak oxygen consumption,
and bone mineral density. However, more research is needed to develop optimal
exercise programs that adequately address long-term health in children who have
a long lifetime ahead.
