Table 1 Inclusion and exclusion criteria for the study

Inclusion criteria for Groups 1, 2, 3

  • Age≥18

 • Severe neurological injury

 • Bed rest≥7 days

 • Continuous monitoring in the Intensive or Intermediate Care Unit

 • Signed informed consent

Exclusion criteria for Group 2

 • Amputation of a leg, with impossibility to pedal

 • Trauma or previous surgery of the feet, pelvis or lumbar column

 • Abdominal open wound

 • Extreme obesity (BMI> 35)

 • Ulcers

 • Height <150cm

 • Psychiatric disease or severe agitation

Exclusion criteria for Group 3

 • Fixed contractions of the legs

 • Weight >135 kg

 • Leg length <70 cm or > 102 cm

 • Bone instability

 • Open ulcers or vascular disease of the legs

 • Cardiac contro-indications

 • Inadequate cooperation of the patient