Measuring Peak Volume of Oxygen (Peak VO2) in Deep Water for Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury: Protocol Development. Issue 1 (2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Geigle, Paula; Ogonowskaslodownik, Anna; Slodownik, Robert; Gorman, Peter H.; Scott, William H.
• Is Part Of: Journal of aquatic physical therapy. Volume 26:Issue 1(2018)
• Publication Date: 2018
• Subjects: paraplegia -- tetraplegia -- aquatic environment -- fitness testing -- cardiovascular testing; Hydrotherapy -- Periodicals; Physical therapy -- Periodicals; 615.853
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2377-6102

Abstract

Abstract : Background. : No published study existed describing a deepwater protocol for assessing aerobic capacity for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). A recent systematic review with meta‐analysis indicated weak evidence supporting aquatic exercise effectiveness to improve aerobic fitness for individuals living with SCI. This evidence may reflect lack of in pool cardiovascular assessment methods, and not the actual occurring oxygen consumption gain. Due to testing and training specificity issues, it is recommended the outcome assessment match the prescribed exercise training program. Purpose. : The protocol development explored one novel deep‐water peak volume of oxygen (peak VO2 ) testing protocol adapted for individuals with SCI. Methods. : After signing an internal review board approved consent, seventeen individuals living with SCI, injury level ranging from C4 to L1 and classified by the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI) from A to D, successfully participated in this protocol. Acclimation and testing sessions were utilized to safely and effectively measure peak VO2 . The aquatic acclimation session (20‐minute) performed before the actual testing was particularly helpful for participants unexperienced in water exercise. During this session aquatic equipment selection occurred according to the participant abilities and needs. A poolside metabolic cart with the Aquatrainer (Cosmed, Italy) attachment measured cardiovascular fitness testing. Summary/Suggestions. : The participants and the practitioners reported no adverse events or discomfort during or after testing. Measuring peak VO2 in deep water in individuals with SCI with this protocol offered one safe option for cardiovascular capacity testing.