Typical responses to isometric exercises can be seen with increases in both heart rate and blood pressure. However, these responses can be altered in exercisers with spinal cord injuries, where, generally, heart rate increases are slightly diminished and blood pressure increases are all but eliminated in those with injuries below the 12th thoracic vertebrae.

While we know that spinal cord injuries have many related secondary and associated, it is important to know that physiological responses may differ among spinal cord injured exercisers and non-injured exercisers. In these cases, it is critical to monitor the physical and emotional signs and symptoms of stress (such as exercise) as heart rate and blood pressure may be poor indicators of exertion.

This article appeared to be user-friendly at first sight. However, the results portion was difficult to read and comprehend. The presentation of the findings was very confusing and at times appeared contradictory. While the population numbers seemed pleasantly high for a spinal cord study, the large number actually worked against the research, with too many groups (five) to analyze relative to controls. Isolating fewer groups, perhaps only complete or incomplete injuries or only upper thoracic injuries, could have directed the research into a more focused study.