Regaining the ability to walk seems to be a major long-term goal of persons with spinal cord injury (SCI).1 Considering this and findings that persons with an incomplete SCI are likely to regain some level of walking ability, 2 3 4 exploring ways to facilitate “walking recovery” would be important in rehabilitation management.1 5

I’ve learned so much over the past six months  – my injury has actually turned into a real opportunity for me.

Simon

Five months into Simon’s rehabilitation, a Rehab-Cycle^® began that focused on furthering the recovery of his walking ability. To start off the Rehab-Cycle^® an assessment of Simon's functioning was conducted as the basis for defining the goals to address in rehabilitation.

While the broad goals of community integration and independent living are common long-term goals set by persons with spinal cord injury (SCI), the steps toward reaching these goals can differ greatly from person to person.

For each intervention target, appropriate interventions were identified and assigned to one or more of Simon’s rehabilitation team members.

I never expected to make so much progress so quickly. Now I can swim and ride a bike, but there are still some challenges. I’m nervous while swimming and can’t yet get onto a mountain bike, which I find really disappointing. But I know these will also improve with time and practice.

Simon at the end of the Rehab-Cycle^®

Rehabilitation incorporating walking as a goal requires both the guidance and support of the rehabilitation team and the focus and determination of the injured person.

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