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Spinal Cord Injury News - Return to Menu

Medical Breakthrough -- Exercise for Disabilities

56-million Americans currently live with some type of disability. More than six-million of them have to use a wheelchair to get around. Exercise is making their lives a lot easier.

By the way they push... pull … and lift … you wouldn't know these exercisers all share a devastating past.

"A virus attacked my spinal cord when I was 1."

"I was a passenger in an suv that rolled over."

"I had a spinal cord injury from a diving accident."

But their disabilities don't hold them back.

A new program at Washington University helps people with disabilities exercise on their own. Special equipment and personal trainers make it possible.

David gray, phd
professor of neurology
washington university school of medicine
st. Louis, mo

"Fatigue is reduced. Pain is reduced. Self-confidence is increased," says Dr. David Gray, a professor of neurology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis Missouri.

Occupational Therapist Kerri Morgan says those benefits are even more important for disabled people.

"It's not just that we can't walk that's the problem, you know, bladder, bowel problems, circulation problems, so exercising helps control a lot of those things," says Morgan.

Research shows regular exercise can help disabled people reduce pain meds, gain independence, lower their risk of developing other secondary conditions and improve everyday function.

Katie Rodriguez-Banister could only lift 60 pounds at the start of the program. Now, she's up to 170!

"It really wears my body out. I love that feeling," she says.

And it does more.

"It really boosts my self-esteem and makes me feel better. I'm not tired all the time anymore," says Jason DeSalvo who suffered a spinal injury.

"Overall, I just feel better."

And all that energy is put to good use. They also play on a rugby team! proof that exercise can be fun ... And a little rough.

The program at washington university is funded by government grants and is free to the participants.