Wellness and Weight Management Study for Persons with Spinal Cord Injury
The purpose of the study is to evaluate the outcomes of implementing a weight management and fitness program for persons with traumatic spinal cord injury. We would like to determine if participation in a weight management program increases people’s satisfaction with their overall health and wellness. We would also like to find out if participation in this program reduces various health risk factors and improves movement.
Details of the Study
Each approved participant will be assessed at three intervals: at the beginning, after 12 weeks and after 24 weeks. The assessments will include lab tests with blood draw; fitness indicators involving metabolism and aerobic capacity; and an interview related to readiness to change exercise habits and fitness goals.
Participants will be enrolled in a 12-week program called “Take Action” that incorporates individualized and group nutritional education, as well as cardiovascular exercise and strength training. The LiveWell Fitness Center at Abbott Northwestern Hospital will be used as the primary facility. Subjects will participate in one to two weekly supervised exercise sessions at the center and then follow a home exercise program on their own. The study will be staffed by specialists from Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute and the program is free of charge for those who meet inclusion/exclusion criteria.
Eligibility
In order to participate in this study, you must:
Be between 21 and 70 years of age
Have had a (complete) traumatic spinal cord injury at or below T1 at least one year ago
Be able to commit the time necessary for participation (assessments at three intervals over a 25-week period and at least two sessions per week at the Live Well Fitness Center for a 12-week period)
Be able to provide your own transportation to the Abbott Northwestern Hospital campus (see map)
Be able to read and follow instructions given in English
Have approval to participate from your personal physician
Be overweight with a body mass index of 25 or greater (which we can help you calculate)
Be free of arm and hand problems that would interfere with your participation in exercise, as determined by a physical medicine physician
Be free of skin problems that would interfere with your ability to sit in a chair to exercise, as determined by a physical medicine physician
Not be abusing alcohol or non-prescription drugs
Learn More
If you are interested in learning more about participating in this study, contact Susan Hagel at 612-863-5712 or susan.hagel@allina.com.
Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute
800 E. 28th St.
Minneapolis, MN 55407
612-863-4200 or toll free 866-880-3550 E-mail us
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