Activity-Based Therapy (ABT) encompasses therapeutic activities involving « repetitive neuromuscular activation below the level of spinal injury, typically achieved through intensive, task-specific movement practice. » [1]
Activity-Based Therapy (ABT) is a pioneering approach to neurorestorative rehabilitation firmly rooted in the principles of neuroplasticity. At its core, ABT seeks to awaken the potential of the neuromuscular system below the level of a spinal cord injury through rigorous, task-specific, and repetitive exercises.
ABT Benefits:
- Improved Function and Independence: ABT endeavors to reignite dormant functions, leading to enhanced self-sufficiency.
- Strengthened Bones and Muscles: By reintroducing gravitational loading, ABT bolsters bone and muscle health.
- Reduction of Complications: ABT plays a crucial role in mitigating secondary complications associated with paralysis.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Ultimately, ABT aims to elevate the overall quality of life for individuals affected by spinal cord injuries.
- Assistance with Bladder and Bowel Health: ABT supports bladder and bowel health, furthering comprehensive rehabilitation.
- Enhancement of Brain-Muscle Connection: Through high repetition of movement and various forms of feedback—visual, verbal, and tactile—ABT seeks to refine the connection between the brain and muscles.
ABT Principles:
- Weight-bearing: A cornerstone of ABT, weight-bearing exercises simulate natural gravitational loading and stimulate the neuromuscular system.
- Task-specificity: ABT tailors exercises to mimic real-world tasks, aiming to restore functional abilities.
- High Repetition of Movement: ABT capitalizes on the power of repetition to drive neural reorganization and motor recovery.
- Visual, Verbal & Tactile Feedback: ABT leverages multiple forms of feedback to fine-tune the rehabilitation process, engaging the sensory and motor systems in tandem.