Optimization of Adaptive Rowing Seating

Adaptive sports programs are integral components to combating Veteran isolation, promoting wellbeing and seeking to build teams, networks, communities. These activity-based communities are medicine free treatment systems enhancing Veterans' health from a holistic perspective. This approach to Veteran healthcare is critical as studies indicate Veterans not only have 56% higher perceived social isolation but are also 1.5x more susceptible to suicide than the general public. It is imperative to improve access to exercise and physical activity through adaptive sport or recreation. This proposal is going to focus on Adaptive Indoor Rowing for Veterans with limited or changing trunk stability (i.e. SCI/D, paralysis, paresis, etc.). Rowing is a unique full-body activity that increases cardiovascular demand and increases coordination and aerobic capacity through movement. This proposal aims to address critical gaps in adaptive rowing technology and provide Veterans with limited trunk stability access to full stroke adaptive rowing.

Inclusion Criteria: * Non-ventilator dependent paralysis, such as: * central nervous system impairment * spinal cord injuries with single neurological level in the cervical to lumbosacral region * cerebrovascular accident with associated sequelae including but not limited to hemiparesis and spasticity * neurodegenerative disorders including but not limited to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, multiple system atrophy, and parkinsonism * Poor trunk control/stability * Ability of body structure to fit within the limits of AIRS and the rowing system * Either volitional control of lower extremities or response/tolerance to electrical stimulation * Individuals who would be classified as PR2 or PR1 - FISA Para-Rowing Classifications Exclusion Criteria: * Veterans will be excluded if they have: * acute illness or injury * active or recent pressure injuries in the last 6 months affecting their ability to safely row (e.g., the coccyx, ischial tuberosity, sacrum, etc.) * Individuals who would be classified as NE or PR3-PD - FISA Para-Rowing Classifications * Flap procedure to address pressure injury less than one year prior * Upper extremity pain that restricts rowing * Surgical procedure within past 6 months that would make the study procedures unsafe (e.g., tendon repairs/transfers, neural decompressions, bony fusions, etc.) * Upper extremity or spine fractures within past 3 months, or longer if remains unstable/not fully healed. * Medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, or other conditions that would make the study procedures unsafe pregnancy * Inability to communicate with the study team in real time * Inability to follow simple commands * Unable or unwilling to give consent