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Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

12-1-2024

Abstract

Purpose: Neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD), a common complication following spinal cord injury (SCI), significantly impacts the quality of life for SCI athletes. Recent domestic and international studies have indicated the effectiveness of physical therapy in treating bowel dysfunction. This paper aimed to summarize the pathophysiological characteristics of SCI athletes, explore research progress in physical therapy for improving NBD after SCI, and maximize the enhancement of the quality of life and athletic performance of SCI athletes.

Method: Literature searches were conducted across several databases, including CNKI, PubMed and Web of Science, covering relevant literature from 1993 to 2022. Subsequently, the collected literature was screened, analyzed, and summarized.

Results: Conventional treatments for NBD pose challenges due to the lack of targeted and highly reliable assessment methods or scales, both domestically and internationally. Drug therapy carries associated side effects, and interventions like digital rectal stimulation and enemas have low acceptance among athletes. Compliance with dietary adjustments and abdominal massage is poor, showing limited effectiveness. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify safer, more convenient, and effective physical therapy options. In addition to well-established pelvic floor muscle training, various types of electrical stimulation therapy have shown continuous innovation. Building on the research foundation of electrical stimulation therapy, prospective methods, such as magnetic stimulation, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and biofeedback therapy, have been proposed. Physical modalities, including laser, shortwave, infrared, ultrasound, and hyperbaric oxygen have been widely applied, demonstrating positive effects on improving bowel dysfunction and providing new directions for further exploration.

Conclusion: SCI athletes, integral members of the disabled athlete community and a significant vulnerable group, warrant broad attention from society. By utilizing physical therapy as a means and considering the pathogenesis, finding more precise quantitative assessment indicators, further exploring exercise therapy for bowel disorders, and providing personalized treatment plans can alleviate the suffering from SCI complications, maximize the functional level, and enhance the competitive performance of SCI athletes. This may contribute to the broader development of their athletic careers.

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