The overall objective of this study is to improve unaided cough with abdominal and latissimus dorsi functional electrical stimulation in conjunction with respiratory muscle training in individuals with acute spinal cord injuries.
Traumatic and atraumatic C2- T12 Spinal cord injury (AIS A, B, and C motor incomplete and complete injuries) currently admitted to inpatient rehabilitation with an injury date < 12 months prior to enrollment
Positive response to electrical stimulation through a palpable contraction
Fluent in written and spoken English
Individuals who do not meet inclusion criteria
Prisoners
Concurrent traumatic brain injury determined by Rancho level of cognitive functioning < VI
Individuals with open tracheostomy