Welcome to the Perfect Step
Research and Publications
Here, we showcase our groundbreaking studies and insightful articles that highlight our commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals with paralysis through structured exercise programs.
The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine
The Perfect Step is the first one: Improving the quality of life for patients with spinal cord injuries through structured exercise
Ellie M. Fratt, Alex McDonald, Hal Hargrave & Robert Sallis
The article titled "The Perfect Step is the First One: Improving the Quality of Life for Patients with Spinal Cord Injuries through Structured Exercise" discusses the benefits of a structured exercise program for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). Conducted at The Perfect Step, a community-based fitness facility, the study found that participants who engaged in at least two hours of exercise-based therapy per week over two years showed significant improvements in mood, pain management, independence, bladder function, and reduced pressure ulcers. The findings suggest that integrating structured exercise into rehabilitation programs can greatly enhance the quality of life for SCI patients.
Below are a few high-level results from the study:
Physical Function: Enhanced through neuroplasticity retraining.
Mental Health: Improved mood and pain control.
Independence: Increased ability to perform daily activities.
Medical Complications: Reduced impairments related to bladder function and fewer pressure ulcers.
The research article, “The Effects of Exercise and Post-Rehabilitation Conditioning on Quality of Life and Health Care Indices in Persons with Spinal Cord Injuries: Results of a Ten-Year Follow Up Survey” discusses the positive impact of structured exercise on improving the quality of life for patients with spinal cord injuries. It highlights how regular, targeted physical activity can enhance physical function, mental health, and overall well-being for these individuals. The study emphasizes the importance of a personalized exercise regimen and the role of healthcare professionals in guiding patients through appropriate physical activities to maximize their recovery and daily living abilities.
Below are a few of the results from the participants.
Mobility Improvement:
17.2% (5 participants) achieved 100% mobility.
34% (10 participants) improved mobility for at least 10% of their day.
Pain Management:
31% (9 participants) stopped using pain medications entirely.
86% (25 participants) reduced their medication usage.
Journal of Excercise Physiology
Using the Perfect Step Method to Improve Odds of Ambulation After Spinal Cord Injury
Sarah Mauger, B.S., B.A.; Eric Durak, M.Sc.; Hal Hargrave, Jr.; and Ashton Wray
The recently published research study, Using the Perfect Step Method to Improve Odds of Ambulation After Spinal Cord Injury, highlights the transformative impact of The Perfect Step’s specialized rehabilitation approach on individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). The study found that 18% of participants (8 out of 49) engaged in long-term therapy programs at The Perfect Step improved their ambulatory status, successfully transitioning to the use of walkers, canes, or braces. The research underscores the effectiveness of the STEP Method, Functional Movement Assessment (FMA), and Patterned Neural Activity Recruitment (PNAR) in promoting neuroplasticity and functional movement recovery. In addition to mobility improvements, participants demonstrated a reduced incidence of secondary complications such as cardiovascular dysfunction, respiratory issues, spasticity, and pressure ulcers—highlighting the broader health benefits of activity-based therapy (ABT).
Beyond individual health outcomes, the study establishes The Perfect Step as a leader in post-acute SCI rehabilitation, with methodologies that challenge traditional recovery expectations. Unlike insurance-restricted rehabilitation models, The Perfect Step provides customized, long-term care that focuses on exercise as medicine—a philosophy that is gaining traction in the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation. This research paves the way for continued investigation into how structured, intensive exercise programs can optimize neurological recovery, improve quality of life, and redefine what is possible for those living with paralysis. With long-term follow-up studies already in motion, The Perfect Step remains committed to pushing the boundaries of rehabilitation science, ensuring that more individuals regain independence and mobility through evidence-based, innovative care.