1 Physical Activity and Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Presented by Dr. Brad Hedrick Moderator: Dr. Lex Frieden Sponsored by:

2 Benefits of Physical Activity Impact upon health Impact upon self-esteem Impact upon lifestyle and community integration

3 Common Activities Individual Sports & Activities Strength & Conditioning Pushing Swimming Handcycling Wheelchair Track & Road racing Wheelchair Tennis Skiing Adaptive Golf

4 Common Activities Team Sports Wheelchair Basketball Wheelchair Softball Quad Rugby

5 Possible Secondary Injuries/Conditions to Avoid: Hypotension Autonomic Dysreflexia Hypo/hyperthermia Dehydration Rotator cuff injury Hand/limb injuries Pressure sores

6 Prevention of Secondary Injuries Consult a physician Set challenging but attainable goals Moderation is the KEY – set challenging but attainable goals and use a stepwise approach to increasing intensity, duration and frequency of exercise Keep an exercise/diet diary Participate in different activities

7 Prevention of Secondary Injuries, continued Use equipment that is appropriately configured and sized Warm-up – stretch – warm down Be aware of excessive sweating or moisture Be aware of symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia Use an appropriate seat cushion Use protective apparel such as gloves, or wrist/arm braces, etc. Inspect your body regularly for injuries Get sufficient rest/sleep

8 Environmental and Social Barriers Finding accessible facilities Identifying knowledgeable assistants/trainers Accessing adaptive equipment or assistive technology Sparse programming at the community, collegiate and scholastic levels Future programs, issues, etc.?