Paul’s condition, a C1 spinal cord injury (incomplete) with Brown-Sequard presentation, is challenging when it comes to supporting his goal of improving upper limb mobility and independence.
When Paul first started with NeuroMoves Lismore a year and a half ago everything was lopsided, including his standing, his gait, and seated posture.
Because of his C1 spinal cord injury (incomplete), Paul was unaware of where half of his body was and didn’t really know how to connect to it for movement; he can feel one side of his body but can’t move it, whereas he can move the other side but can’t feel it.
Thankfully since starting with NeuroMoves, his Exercise Physiologist Kat has noticed a vast improvement!
‘During our time together, I’ve watched Paul go from heavy assistance and tactile cueing to get him where he needed to be, whereas now I can just give him verbal instructions, and he is able to command that specific part of his body without looking to see what he is doing.’
The result has been better awareness of his body and posture, more confidence in standing and walking balance, and overall improved feelings of wellbeing in seeing the progress that he’s made with Kat.
‘I’m particularly proud of my ability to hold my body in a better form, standing up straight while walking and maintaining posture has been a goal achieved, and I wish to continue’.
Now that he can connect better with his body, Paul is working on trunk rotation to assist his dynamic balance for a better-quality gait and focusing on functional tasks with his upper limb so that he can participate more in his activities of daily living.
When asked about his sessions at NeuroMoves, Paul shared that he’s felt supported and encouraged to be consistent, and is more confident to try new exercises and push himself further than he thought he would: ‘NeuroMoves [has] helped with consistent progress…The passion and commitment of the Exercise Physiologists (especially Kat) has helped me feel inspired to bring my best!’
His advice for anyone also with a C1 spinal cord injury? Just go for it! ‘If you focus and show up, you will see the gains.’
A huge thank you to Paul for sharing his story and to Kat for supporting Paul throughout his NeuroMoves journey.
If you, or someone you know, has a C1 spinal cord injury (or any other SCI) and are interested to learn more about how we can help, please visit the links below:
