Abstract: It is generally accepted that locomotion in mammals, including humans, is based on the activity of neuronal circuits within the spinal cord (the central pattern generator, CPG). Recent studies indicate a plastic behavior of the spinal neuronal circuits following a spinal cord injuries (SCI). Studies have shown that body weight support treadmill training (BWSTT) is effective in restoring locomotor function in cats with a complete spinal lesion. It has become possible to regain some locomotor activity in patients with spinal cord injury through an intense training on BWSTT, as in cat. So, it is a staired problem how to take advantage of the plasticity of spinal locomotor pattern generator and design the gait training program for SCI patients.

Key words: spinal cord injuries, locomotion, central pattern generator, review