Behaviour of H-reflex amplitude in the individual with Spinal Cord Injury: An observation study

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to observe the reflexive changes in individuals with spinal cord injury at 3, 6, and 9 months of injury following SCI. Methodology: It is an observational study, Ten SCI subjects aged between 18 to 60 years are willing to participate. Thoracic level of SCI, aetiology from trauma, vascular or orthopaedic pathology, and participants undertaking the physiotherapy treatment daily were included into the study. Patients with any other psychological and other neurological disorder, above 60 years were excluded from the study. Participants were in a prone lying position and the area to be assessed was cleaned with spirit to avoid hair resistance. Soleus H-reflex amplitude was elicited from the right leg at 3,6 and 9 months respectively. Result: Descriptive Statistics was obtained and the normality of the data was checked using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov Normality test. Within-group comparison was done by Freidman test and post hoc analysis was done using Dunn’s Multiple comparison test. It is seen that there was a significant difference (p<0.0001) H reflex amplitude at 3rd, 6th, and 9th post injury. Conclusion: The finding of the study revealed that there is gradual increase in H-reflex amplitude in individuals post-injury. Therefore, the spinal neurons gradually regain their excitability and recovery takes place over the period.