Identical twins studied to determine impact of SCI on energy expenditure and lean muscle mass (page 1)
Investigators measured energy expenditure and fat-free mass, as well as the relationships between these parameters, in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). Thirteen pairs of identical twins discordant for SCI were studied. Twins with SCI had lower energy expenditure than their able-bodied co-twins. Regardless of paralysis, direct relationships existed between energy expenditure and lean mass. In persons with SCI, lean mass is reduced, and this reduction is directly related to energy expenditure.
Wingate Anaerobic Testing indicator of upper-body strength in persons with tetraplegia (pg 9)
This study examined a range of resistance loads during arm Wingate Anaerobic Testing (WAnT) in persons with different levels of cervical SCI. The WAnT is a commonly used test of muscle power, which requires pedaling or arm-cranking at maximum speed against a constant resistance. Investigators determined that the appropriate external load for arm WAnT is specific to the level of tetraplegia. This simple and quick test may serve as a useful assessment of upper-body power in persons with cervical-level SCI.
Passive joint moments may lead to enhanced neuroprostheses for people with SCI (pg 15)
This study quantified and compared lower-limb passive joint moments in able-bodied volunteers and volunteers with SCI. Passive joint moments help control movement. Measuring and modeling the changes in passive properties following SCI will facilitate the development of better lower-limb musculoskeletal models. These models may aid in the development of enhanced neuroprostheses that use functional electrical stimulation to restore standing and walking in individuals with paraplegia.
Variable-frequency-train stimulation not effective in reducing muscle fatigue after SCI (pg 33)'"/>
Contact: Judith LaVoie
judith@vard.org
410-962-1800 x 229
VA Research Communications Service
20-Feb-2004