The impact of aging on locomotor recovery in preclinical models of traumatic spinal cord injury: a systematic review
By
Aniqah I. Bhatti
Zhikai Li
Natalia Jagodzinska
Yuhan Guo
Faheem I. Bhatti
Zainab I. Bhatti
Jamie F. M. Brannigan
Benjamin M. Davies
Mark R. Kotter
Oliver D. Mowforth
June 1, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Effects of Age on Locomotor Recovery in Animal Models of Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Key Mechanisms Age-related decline in neuroplasticity, altered immunological responses, impaired regenerative capacity. Target Population Animal models (young and aged rodents) Care Setting Preclinical research
Key Highlights
Older animals show significantly lower locomotor recovery post-SCI compared to younger animals. The Basso, Beattie, Bresnahan (BBB) score was the primary outcome measure in 77.8% of studies. Pre-injury and post-injury exercise improved locomotor recovery in aged rats to levels comparable with young rats. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Age is an important prognostic factor influencing recovery following SCI. Management
Current SCI management guidelines do not explicitly make age-stratified recommendations. Monitoring & Follow-up
Long-term recovery demonstrates an age-influenced trajectory. Risks
Older individuals have significantly lower survival rates within the first year following traumatic SCI. Patient & Prescribing Data
Individuals with traumatic spinal cord injury, particularly older adults.
Rehabilitative interventions, such as exercise, may mitigate age-related deficits.
Clinical Best Practices
Consider age as a biological variable in SCI research. Utilize a multidisciplinary team for rehabilitation in chronic phase management. Related Resources & Content
