Introduction

Reflex control could improve walking after incomplete spinal injuries

Reflex control could improve walking after incomplete spinal injuries

A training regimen to adjust the body’s motor reflexes may help improve mobility for some people with incomplete spinal cord injuries, according to a study supported by the National Institutes of Health.

During training, the participants were instructed to suppress a knee jerk-like reflex elicited by a small shock to the leg. Those who were able to calm hyperactive reflexes — a common effect of spinal cord injuries — saw improvements in their walking.

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