Canterbury University research is aimed at giving people with spinal-cord injuries improved movement and stability.

PhD student Cindy Allison plans to draw on the work of Israeli physicist Moshe Feldenkrais to develop a group programme for disabled people that would be accessible and affordable.

The Feldenkrais method aims to restore the sensory system through specific movements and attention to sensory feedback, with research showing it could reduce pain, fatigue, stress and medical costs, while improving mobility, stability, co-ordination and breathing.

Allison said Kevin Hitchcock, a former director of news at Channel Ten in Sydney, was told he would be paralysed from the neck down for the rest of his life after a diving accident, but had made an almost full recovery using the Feldenkrais method.

American Molly Hale broke her neck in 1995 and was told she would be paralysed from the shoulders down, but this year was able to walk unassisted for the first time since her accident.

Irene Lober, of Germany, was able to ski, despite being told she would need a wheelchair for the rest of her life.

Most disabled people who used the method did so individually.

"Working in a group setting, you get the added benefit of inspiration and frequent humour from others in the group, she said.

"They also get a bit of an understanding of the method so they can do things on their own during the week."

Those interested in participating in the project can email lucinda.allison@pg.canterbury.ac.nz or visit neuroplasticity.co.nz.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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