Spinal Cord Injury

Lecture Luncheon

(1009403) LECTURE LUNCHEON: Restoration of Motor Function in Persons with Chronic Spinal Cord Injury Via Acute Intermittent Hypoxia *TICKETED EVENT*

Presenter(s)

• WR

  William Rymer, MD, PhD

  Director of Single Motor Unit Laboratory
  Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
  Chicago, Illinois

This presentation will review what we have learned about the effects of acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) from studies on the neural control of breathing and its restoration after damage to neural or musculoskeletal elements engaged in respiration. In particular, we will show that following AIH, substantial enhancements of motor outflow arise in both the neural pathways regulating breathing, and also in non-respiratory motor systems, such as major limb muscles in both upper and lower extremities. Finally, we will review briefly our own findings about potential therapeutic applications of AIH techniques in humans with injury to thoracolumbar or cervical cord.

Priority front row seats are reserved for those who purchase a luncheon ticket. Cannot Guarantee for seating for those who do not register for this lecture luncheon.

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss findings about compensatory mechanisms promoting rapid restoration of ventilation in animal models that have sustained damage to cervical cord or phrenic nerves that impair breathing
• Discuss experimental observations about the actions of acute intermittent hypoxia in patients with incomplete injury of the spinal cord
• Consider the additional benefits that derive from the combination of acute intermittent hypoxia with intensive physical training of upper or lower extremities