Impactos de um protocolo de eletroestimulação associada a exercícios resistidos na atividade muscular e funcionalidade de indivíduos com lesão medular

Abstract

Introduction: Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes motor, sensory, and functional changes that significantly impact individuals' functionality and quality of life. In this context, physical therapy interventions combining resistance exercises and functional electrical stimulation (FES) have shown potential to promote increased muscle strength, neuromuscular activation, and functionality. However, limitations remain in the literature regarding the standardization of

combined protocols and their effects on these individuals. Methodology: This is a quasi- experimental, longitudinal, descriptive study involving 7 participants diagnosed with spinal

cord injury. A protocol consisting of 10 sessions—held twice weekly—was administered, involving resistance exercises combined with functional electrical stimulation (FES). Outcomes assessed before and after the intervention included muscle strength, muscle electrical activity (via surface electromyography [sEMG] of the tibialis anterior [TA] and lateral gastrocnemius [LG] muscles), functionality (via the Functional Independence Measure [FIM]), and quality of life (via the SF-36 questionnaire). Statistical analysis was performed using Jamovi® software, with a significance level of p ≤ 0.05. Results: A trend toward improved muscle strength was observed in 57.14% of participants following the protocol. There was a slight increase in total FIM scores post-intervention, although this was not statistically significant. Regarding quality of life, 7 out of 8 SF-36 domains showed increased mean scores after the protocol, notably in the domains of social/motor limitations and general health. EMG analysis revealed changes in amplitude and frequency parameters for the TA and LG muscles, with a trend toward increased muscle electrical activity in some participants. Conclusion: The combined protocol of resistance exercises and functional electrical stimulation demonstrated potential to improve muscle strength, functionality, and perceived quality of life in individuals with spinal cord injury.