Training unsupported sitting in people with chronic spinal cord injuries: a randomized controlled trial

Study design: Randomized, assessor-blinded trial. Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of a 6-week task-specific training programme on the abilities of people with chronic spinal cord injuries to sit unsupported. Setting: NSW, Australia. Methods: Thirty adults with spinal cord injuries of at least 1-year duration were recruited. Participants in the training group (n = 15) performed up to 1 h of task-specific training three times a week for 6 weeks. Participants in the control group (n = 15) did not receive any training or additional therapy. Primary outcome measures were the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), and tests of Upper Body Sway, Maximal Balance Range and donning and doffing a T-shirt (the T-shirt test). Results: The between-group mean difference (95% confidence interval) for the maximal balance range was 64 mm (95% confidence interval 20 to 108 mm; P = 0.006). There were no significant between-group mean differences for the COPM and the Upper Body Sway and T-shirt tests. Conclusions: This trial shows initial support for intensive task-specific training for improving the abilities of people with chronic spinal cord injuries to sit unsupported, although the real-world implications of the observed treatment effects are yet to be determined. Spinal Cord (2010) 48, 138-143; doi: 10.1038/sc.2009.88; published online 14 July 2009