Synchronous Tele-Resistance Training to Improve Upper Extremity Function in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury

This study investigated the effects of resistive exercises applied with synchronized telerehabilitation on upper extremity functions in patients with SCI who use wheelchairs. A randomized controlled trial included 21 patients with SCI between the ages of between18 and 60. Participants were divided into two groups: the Study Group (n=11) and the Control Group (n=10). Participants in the study group applied resistive exercise with a synchronized telerehabilitation method, while participants in the control group applied a home exercise program. The upper extremity muscle strength of the participants was evaluated with hand-held dynamometer before and after the treatment, physical performance with a 20-meter push test, and physical activity level with Physical Activity Scale for Disabled Individuals.

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Key information

Conditions

Spinal Cord Injury Central Nervous System Diseases Nervous System Diseases Spinal Cord Diseases Spinal Cord Injuries Trauma, Nervous System Wounds and Injuries

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Turkish Spinal Cord Paralytics Association at Hüsnü Ayık Special Care Center

Diyarbakır, Kayapınar, 21070, Turkey (Türkiye)

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

Aged between 18 and 60 years
Diagnosed with spinal cord injury classified as ASIA A, B, or C
Cooperative and able to follow verbal instructions
Has access to online communication devices
Partially or fully dependent on a wheelchair
Sufficient upper extremity strength to operate a wheelchair
Has not undergone surgery in the past 6 months
Willing to participate and provided informed consent

Exclusion criteria

Unwilling or unmotivated to participate
Presence of a progressive disease
Fully bedridden
Significant cognitive impairment

Treatment and study plan

Telerehabilitation-Based Resistance Exercise Program

Behavioral

Participants received synchronous telerehabilitation sessions three times per week for six weeks. Each session lasted 45 minutes and included supervised resistance exercises for upper extremity muscle groups. Exercise bands were chosen based on baseline strength. Pulse oximeters were used to monitor heart rate and oxygen saturation.

Home Exercise Program

Behavioral

Participants were given a home-based, unsupervised exercise program to follow three times per week for six weeks. The exercises were taught at the beginning, and adherence was monitored using a physical activity diary. No tele-supervision was provided.

Primary outcomes

Change in upper extremity muscle strength measured by hand-held dynamometer

Time frame: Baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention

Muscle strength of the shoulder flexors, extensors, abductors, and wrist flexors and extensors will be measured bilaterally using a hand-held dynamometer. The outcome is reported in Newtons (N).

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Hacer Önen Tekin

Other

Registry information

Official study title

Comparison of Upper Extremity Resistance Exercises as Synchronous Tele and Home Programs in Paraplegic Patients: a Randomized, Controlled, Double-blind Study

Acronym: TELERES-SCI

Important dates

Study start: 2023
Primary completion: 2024
Study completion: 2024
First posted: Aug 11, 2025
Registry last updated: Aug 11, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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Completed