How science in space is helping patients on the ground

The research led by Ottawa's Dr. Guy Trudel is one of four new Canadian studies to be conducted aboard the International Space Station.

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Dr. Guy Trudel often tells his rehab patients that the work they are doing to regain mobility and function is similar to what astronauts do when they return from space. Article content

In fact, people on long-term bed rest experience similar challenges as astronauts at the International Space Station, where microgravity results in less muscle use. Article content Article content

Astronauts commonly suffer from a number of health issues, some serious, when they return to Earth after long periods in space, ranging from loss of bone density and muscle to eye problems and anemia. It can take months of rehabilitation for them to rega