North County Water and Sports Center Unique Approach to Spinal Cord Injuries

Key Elements to Our Program

1. Vertical Position
   The vertical position is utilized to simulate function and promote alignment and elongation of the spinal column. In this position the individual must utilize their trunk muscles in order to control the rotation created by the center of buoyancy moving to be aligned with the center of gravity.
2. Multiple Directions
   In stimulating the neuromuscular system it is important to reverse normal movement patterns. The individual becomes easily accommodated to the forward movement patterns especially within the field of vision. When moving forward we tend to use our visionary sense, however moving backwards and sideways we need to shift to our internal kinesthetic awareness. Movement in multiple directions also works towards correcting or preventing muscle imbalances.
3. Various Speeds
   The principles of training and specificity apply in which if we train only at one speed our body accommodates, however there is little to no transfer over to different speeds. Moving slowly allows for elongation while learning and integrating new movement patterns. Increasing the speed not only increases the coordination, in water increased speed creates increased resistance. A quick reversal of movement can promote muscle contraction and assists the patient in achieving a sense of that contraction/ muscle tightening. This is especially effective with the trunk strengthening exercises.

4. All Elements of Movement
   The Burdenko Method trains the six essential qualities of movement: balance, coordination, flexibility, endurance, quickness and strength. These qualities work in combination. Building on the foundation of balance and trunk stability the remaining qualities are challenged by a variety of exercises. Balance and coordination are a significant focus with the primary goal of neuromuscular integration and re-education.
5. Working Globally then Isolating Muscle or Injury
   Rebalance and reorganize the physical system, providing a series of successful challenges before isolating the weaker areas.
6. Coordinated Breathing
   Coordination of breath with exercise is essential in promoting adequate lung capacity and oxygen exchange.
7. Connecting Mind and Body
   Connecting the mind and body with each movement to elongate the body, build central core strength with fluid movements.
8. Varied Equipment
   Utilizing different equipment and positions for the same exercise creates a variety of location and type of resistance that leads to greater challenges, minimizing accommodation.
9. Standing and Walking
   When appropriate, standing is performed in chest deep water with assist of the therapist, the primary focus in the early stages is trunk control and balance. As improvements in strength and trunk stability are achieved standing is progressed to waist deep water. Although many patients become dizzy when standing on land, in the water they do not have these complaints. The hydrostatic pressure of water facilitates venous return of the lower extremities allowing for adequate blood flow to the heart and brain. Walking is achieved with therapist assist and or the use of assistive devices. Again deeper water is utilized for assistance with the goal of progressing to more shallow water and eventually land. Level of independent walking varies between individuals and their level and type of injury.
10. Swimming
    Swimming is an ideal way for the spinal cord individual to achieve cardiovascular endurance and a sense of freedom.
11. Land-based Exercise in Combination with Aquatic Program
    It is our belief that in order to optimize the benefits from the water exercise, a land based program, which complements the aquatic exercise, is essential. Land based exercise utilizes some of the same principles as employed in the water.

[ Back to Services ]