The success of splints or other attempts for functional
ambulation depends on whether the injury is complete
or incomplete and the injury level. An incomplete SCI
patient has the potential to walk, irrespective of level. The
beginning of functional ambulation level is considered
to be T12. Truncal and pelvic stabilization must be
provided to stand and mobilize in the parallel bars.
Mobilization in the parallel bars, standing and balance
training exercises should be started and the patient could
be supported by a posterior shell in the parallel bars
during this period. A long and locked knee joint walking
device is utilized, ensuring the integrity and stability of
the lower extremity joints in patients after the upright
standing with a posterior shell. The benefits of standing
are a reduction in spasticity and the risk of DVT, bowel
and bladder function recovery, prevention of pressure
ulcers and osteoporosis, and reduction in depression[40].
Functional neuromuscular stimulation (FNS) is based on
innervating nerve fibers of intact muscles. If the muscles
are denervated, FNS stimulates the muscle fibers. A study
suggests that suitable activation to specific muscles of the
trunk and lower extremity can enable patients with SCI
to alter their standing postures with minimal upper body
effort and subsequently increase the muscle volume[