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Tharu NS, Wong AYL, Zheng YP. Transcutaneous Electrical Spinal Cord Stimulation Increased Target-Specific Muscle Strength and Locomotion in Chronic Spinal Cord Injury. Brain Sci 2024; 14:640. [PMID: 39061380 PMCID: PMC11274661 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14070640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recovery of locomotion is greatly prioritized, and neuromodulation has been emerging as a promising approach in recent times. STUDY DESIGN Single-subject research design. SETTINGS A laboratory at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. OBJECTIVES To investigate the effects of augmenting activity-based therapy (ABT) to transcutaneous electrical spinal cord stimulation (TSCS) on enhancing specific lower limb muscle strength and improving locomotor ability in an individual with chronic incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI). METHODS An individual with iSCI underwent two phases of treatment, ABT alone followed by combined ABT+TSCS, each for a period of 10 weeks. The TSCS stimulated T10-T11 and T12-L1 segments with a frequency of 30 Hz at an intensity between 105 mA and 130 mA. Manual muscle testing, 6 min walk test (6MWT), and surface electromyography (EMG) responses of specific lower limb muscles were measured. Additionally, spasticity and sensorimotor examinations were conducted every two weeks, while pain tolerance was recorded after each treatment session. RESULTS After the ABT+TSCS treatment, there was an increase in overall muscle strength grading (from 1.8 ± 0.3 to 2.2 ± 0.6 out of 5.0). The 6MWT showed a greater increase in walking distance (3.5 m to 10 m) after combined treatment than ABT alone. In addition, the EMG response of the anterior rectus femoris, biceps femoris, medial gastrocnemius, and tibialis anterior after ABT+TSCS increased more than after ABT alone. The spasticity grade was reduced (from 0.8 ± 0.7 to 0.5 ± 0.6) whereas the average lower limb motor score increased from 17 to 23 points. No adverse effects were reported. CONCLUSIONS ABT+TSCS increased the target-specific lower limb muscle strength and walking ability more than ABT alone in an individual with chronic iSCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niraj Singh Tharu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China;
| | - Arnold Yu Lok Wong
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China;
- Research Institute for Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yong-Ping Zheng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China;
- Research Institute for Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
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2
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Tay MRJ, Kong KH. Relationship of serial muscle ultrasound of rectus femoris and ambulatory recovery in patients with acute incomplete spinal cord injury: A prospective observational study. J Spinal Cord Med 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38819981 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2024.2344317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT/OBJECTIVE To investigate the change in serial muscle ultrasound of rectus femoris of patients with incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI) performed within 2 months after SCI during acute rehabilitation, and the relationship with functional outcomes at 1 year post-injury. DESIGN Prospective observational study. SETTING Inpatient multi-speciality tertiary rehabilitation center in Singapore. PARTICIPANTS Fifty-four patients with incomplete SCI, defined as American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale B-D, with SCI above L2, were recruited from March 2020 to June 2021. Serial muscle ultrasound of the rectus femoris thickness and echo intensity were obtained at 1 week post-injury and after 2 months via standardized protocols. OUTCOME MEASURES Functional Independence Measure (FIM) motor score, Lower Extremity Motor Score (LEMS), Spinal Cord Independence Measure III (SCIM III) indoor mobility component and Walking Index for Spinal Cord Injury II (WISCI II) were assessed in the first week post-admission and at 1 year. RESULTS There was a significant positive correlation between change in rectus femoris muscle thickness over 2 months and FIM motor score (P < 0.001), LEMS (P < 0.001), SCIM III indoor mobility component (P < 0.001) and WISCI II (P < 0.001) at 1 year. For the change in echo intensity over 2 months, there was a significantly negative correlation with FIM motor score (P = 0.002), LEMS (P = 0.002), SCIM III indoor mobility component (P = 0.001) and WISCI II (P = 0.001) at 1 year. CONCLUSION The findings suggest that ultrasonographic serial assessment of rectus femoris muscle thickness and echo intensity during rehabilitation may be useful for determining the long-term functional outcomes in patients with incomplete SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Keng He Kong
- Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Rehabilitation Medicine, Singapore, Singapore
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Slettahjell HB, Bastakis M, Biering-Sørensen F, Strøm V, Henriksen C. Defining malnutrition in persons with spinal cord injury - does the Global Criteria for Malnutrition work? Food Nutr Res 2024; 68:9989. [PMID: 38571922 PMCID: PMC10989229 DOI: 10.29219/fnr.v68.9989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Physiologic and metabolic changes following spinal cord injury (SCI) lead to an increased risk of malnutrition. The Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) is a three-step approach to diagnose malnutrition: 1) screening; 2) phenotypic and etiological criteria; and 3) malnutrition severity. The main aim of this study was to assess malnutrition in patients with SCI, according to the GLIM criteria. Methods Patients with SCI (≥ 18 years) admitted to rehabilitation were included. Anthropometrics, food intake, and inflammation were assessed on admission. Fat-free mass index (FFMI) was estimated from bioimpedance analysis. Malnutrition was diagnosed by the GLIM criteria, using the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) as the first step screening tool. Sensitivity and specificity analyses were performed. Results In total, 66 patients were assessed (50 men) with a mean age of 51.4 (± 17.4) years and median time since injury was 37.5 (10-450) days. The mean body mass index was 24.7 (± 4.2) kg/m2, and 1-month involuntary weight loss was 5.7 (± 4.4)%. FFMI for men was 17.3 (± 1.9) and for women 15.3 (± 1.6) kg/m2. Forty-one patients (62%) were malnourished according to the GLIM criteria: 27 moderately and 14 severely malnourished. MUST was not able to detect malnutrition risk of nine patients, giving a moderate agreement (kappa 0.66), with a sensitivity of 0.78 and a specificity of 0.92 compared to the GLIM diagnosis. Conclusions In this cross-sectional study, 62% of subacute SCI patients were malnourished according to the GLIM criteria. The screening tool MUST showed moderate agreement with the GLIM criteria and did not detect risk of all patients with a malnutrition diagnosis. The clinical implications of these findings need further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne Bjørg Slettahjell
- Sunnaas Rehabilitation Hospital, Bjørnemyr, Norway
- Department of Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Maria Bastakis
- Department of Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Fin Biering-Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department for Brain- and Spinal Cord Injuries, Bodil Eskesen Center, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Vegard Strøm
- Sunnaas Rehabilitation Hospital, Bjørnemyr, Norway
| | - Christine Henriksen
- Department of Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Norway
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Wouda MF, Løtveit MF, Bengtson EI, Strøm V. The relationship between balance control and thigh muscle strength and muscle activity in persons with incomplete spinal cord injury. Spinal Cord Ser Cases 2024; 10:7. [PMID: 38418466 PMCID: PMC10902359 DOI: 10.1038/s41394-024-00620-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional study. OBJECTIVES A spinal cord injury (SCI) can compromise the ability to maintain sufficient balance control during activities in an upraised position. The objective of the study was to explore the relationship between balance control and muscle strength and muscle activation in the lower extremities in persons with incomplete SCI (iSCI). SETTING Sunnaas Rehabilitation Hospital, Norway. METHODS Thirteen men and two women with iSCI and 15 healthy, matched controls were included. Performance of the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) short version (7 items) was used to indicate balance control. Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) was performed to measure isometric muscle strength in thigh muscles (knee extension/flexion), while surface electromyography (EMG) was measured from M. Vastus Lateralis and M. Biceps Femoris. The relative activation of each muscle during each of the BBS tasks was reported as the percentage of the maximal activation during the MVC (%EMGmax). RESULTS The iSCI participants had a significantly lower BBS sum score and up to 40% lower muscle strength in knee- flexion and extension compared to the matched healthy controls. They also exhibited a significantly higher %EMGmax, i.e. a higher muscle activation, during most of the balance tests. Univariate regression analysis revealed a significant association between balance control and mean values of %EMGmax in Biceps Femoris, averaged over the seven BBS tests. CONCLUSIONS The participants with iSCI had poorer balance control, reduced thigh muscle strength and a higher relative muscle activation in their thigh muscles, during balance-demanding activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthijs Ferdinand Wouda
- Sunnaas Rehabilitation Hospital, Nesoddtangen, Norway.
- Department of Rehabilitation Science and Health Technology, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Marte Fosvold Løtveit
- Sunnaas Rehabilitation Hospital, Nesoddtangen, Norway
- Department of Physical Performance, Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Vegard Strøm
- Sunnaas Rehabilitation Hospital, Nesoddtangen, Norway
- Department of Physical Performance, Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, Oslo, Norway
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Shimoda T, Takano Y. Validation of bioimpedance phase angle in lower extremity of male patients with chronic spinal cord injury. J Phys Ther Sci 2024; 36:63-68. [PMID: 38304153 PMCID: PMC10830158 DOI: 10.1589/jpts.36.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
[Purpose] This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between lower extremity phase angle and muscle thickness/echo intensity in males with chronic spinal cord injury. It also compared bioelectrical impedance analysis measurements to investigate skeletal muscle degeneration between individuals with spinal cord injury and healthy controls. [Participants and Methods] This cross-sectional study included 12 male patients with chronic spinal cord injury and 14 healthy male controls. We used bioelectrical impedance analysis and ultrasonography to measure the lower extremity phase angle and muscle thickness/echo intensity of the rectus femoris muscle, respectively. We also compared the bioelectrical impedance analysis measurements between individuals with spinal cord injury and healthy controls. [Results] Lower extremity phase angle was strongly correlated with muscle thickness and echo intensity of the rectus femoris muscle in individuals with spinal cord injury. All measures differed significantly between individuals with spinal cord injury and healthy controls. [Conclusion] These findings suggest that lower extremity phase angle is a valuable skeletal muscle indicator in spinal cord injury. Furthermore, bioelectrical impedance analysis revealed degeneration of the lower extremity skeletal muscles in individuals with chronic spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeyoshi Shimoda
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health Sciences at
Fukuoka, International University of Health and Welfare: 137-1 Enokizu, Okawa-shi, Fukuoka
831-8501, Japan
| | - Yoshio Takano
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health Sciences at
Fukuoka, International University of Health and Welfare: 137-1 Enokizu, Okawa-shi, Fukuoka
831-8501, Japan
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Pelletier C. Exercise prescription for persons with spinal cord injury: a review of physiological considerations and evidence-based guidelines. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2023; 48:882-895. [PMID: 37816259 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2023-0227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
Persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) experience gains in fitness, physical and mental health from regular participation in exercise and physical activity. Due to changes in physiological function of the cardiovascular, nervous, and muscular systems, general population physical activity guidelines and traditional exercise prescription methods are not appropriate for the SCI population. Exercise guidelines specific to persons with SCI recommend progressive training beginning at 20 min of moderate to vigorous intensity aerobic exercise twice per week transitioning to 30 min three times per week, with strength training of the major muscle groups two times per week. These population-specific guidelines were designed considering the substantial barriers to physical activity for persons with SCI and can be used to frame an individual exercise prescription. Rating of perceived exertion (i.e., perceptually regulated exercise) is a practical way to indicate moderate to vigorous intensity exercise in community settings. Adapted exercise modes include arm cycle ergometry, hybrid arm-leg cycling, and recumbent elliptical equipment. Body weight-supported treadmill training and other rehabilitation modalities may improve some aspects of health and fitness for people with SCI if completed at sufficient intensity. Disability-specific community programs offer beneficial opportunities for persons with SCI to experience quality exercise opportunities but are not universally available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Pelletier
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Human and Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
- Department of Family Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Santana L, Fachin-Martins E, Borges DL, Tenório Cavalcante JG, Babault N, Neto FR, Quagliotti Durigan JL, Marqueti RDC. Neuromuscular disorders in women and men with spinal cord injury are associated with changes in muscle and tendon architecture. J Spinal Cord Med 2023; 46:742-752. [PMID: 35196216 PMCID: PMC10446789 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2022.2035619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to determine the association between neuromuscular function, motor function impairment, and muscle and tendon structures in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) compared to a control (non-disabled) population. DESIGN A cross-sectional study with a control group. SETTING Center of Adapted Sports Training and Special Physical Education. PARTICIPANTS Fifteen individuals with SCI and motor function impairments participated in the study. A paired non-disabled group was recruited for comparison. INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. OUTCOME MEASURES Muscle (biceps brachii, rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and tibialis anterior) and tendon (quadriceps and patellar tendons) structures were assessed by ultrasound imaging (thickness, pennation angle, fascicle length, and echogenicity). Neuromuscular electrophysiological disorders were also assessed using electrodiagnosis techniques (stimulus non-responsivity and chronaxie) in the same muscles. RESULTS Except for the biceps brachii muscle, muscle thickness, pennation angle, and fascicle length were lower (p < 0.01) while echogenicity and chronaxie were greater (p < 0.01) in SCI participants. The SCI participants had a higher prevalence of neuromuscular electrophysiological disorders for all muscles, except the biceps brachii. CONCLUSION Neuromuscular disorders occur in association with muscle and tendon maladaptation in individuals with chronic SCI. A higher prevalence of electrophysiological disorders suggests an acquired polyneuromyopathy for muscles with motor function impairment even though the muscle was innerved, in addition to widespread muscle atrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Santana
- Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Emerson Fachin-Martins
- Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences and Technologies, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - David Lobato Borges
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences and Technologies, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | | | - Nicolas Babault
- Centre d'Expertise de la Performance G. Cometti, U1093-INSERM, CAPS, Faculté des Sciences du Sport, Université de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Dijon, France
| | | | - João Luiz Quagliotti Durigan
- Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences and Technologies, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Rita de Cássia Marqueti
- Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences and Technologies, Universidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
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8
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Arnold N, Scott J, Bush TR. A review of the characterizations of soft tissues used in human body modeling: Scope, limitations, and the path forward. J Tissue Viability 2023; 32:286-304. [PMID: 36878737 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtv.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Soft tissue material properties are vital to human body models that evaluate interactions between the human body and its environment. Such models evaluate internal stress/strain responses in soft tissues to investigate issues like pressure injuries. Numerous constitutive models and parameters have been used to represent mechanical behavior of soft tissues in biomechanical models under quasi-static loading. However, researchers reported that generic material properties cannot accurately represent specific target populations due to large inter-individual variability. Two challenges that exist are experimental mechanical characterization and constitutive modeling of biological soft tissues and personalization of constitutive parameters using non-invasive, non-destructive bedside testing methods. It is imperative to understand the scope and appropriate applications for reported material properties. Thus, the goal of this paper was to compile studies from which soft tissue material properties were obtained and categorize them by source of tissue samples, methods used to quantify deformation, and material models used to describe tissues. The collected studies displayed wide ranges of material properties, and factors that affected the properties included whether tissue samples were in vivo or ex vivo, from humans or animals, the body region tested, body position during in vivo studies, deformation measurements, and material models used to describe tissues. Because of the factors that affected reported material properties, it is clear that much progress has been made in understanding soft tissue responses to loading, yet there is a need to broaden the scope of reported soft tissue material properties and better match reported properties to appropriate human body models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Arnold
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Michigan State University, 428 S Shaw Lane, Rm. 2555 Engineering Building, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1226, USA
| | - Justin Scott
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Michigan State University, 428 S Shaw Lane, Rm. 2555 Engineering Building, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1226, USA
| | - Tamara Reid Bush
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Michigan State University, 428 S Shaw Lane, Rm. 2555 Engineering Building, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1226, USA.
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Xu X, Talifu Z, Zhang CJ, Gao F, Ke H, Pan YZ, Gong H, Du HY, Yu Y, Jing YL, Du LJ, Li JJ, Yang DG. Mechanism of skeletal muscle atrophy after spinal cord injury: A narrative review. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1099143. [PMID: 36937344 PMCID: PMC10020380 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1099143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury leads to loss of innervation of skeletal muscle, decreased motor function, and significantly reduced load on skeletal muscle, resulting in atrophy. Factors such as braking, hormone level fluctuation, inflammation, and oxidative stress damage accelerate skeletal muscle atrophy. The atrophy process can result in skeletal muscle cell apoptosis, protein degradation, fat deposition, and other pathophysiological changes. Skeletal muscle atrophy not only hinders the recovery of motor function but is also closely related to many systemic dysfunctions, affecting the prognosis of patients with spinal cord injury. Extensive research on the mechanism of skeletal muscle atrophy and intervention at the molecular level has shown that inflammation and oxidative stress injury are the main mechanisms of skeletal muscle atrophy after spinal cord injury and that multiple pathways are involved. These may become targets of future clinical intervention. However, most of the experimental studies are still at the basic research stage and still have some limitations in clinical application, and most of the clinical treatments are focused on rehabilitation training, so how to develop more efficient interventions in clinical treatment still needs to be further explored. Therefore, this review focuses mainly on the mechanisms of skeletal muscle atrophy after spinal cord injury and summarizes the cytokines and signaling pathways associated with skeletal muscle atrophy in recent studies, hoping to provide new therapeutic ideas for future clinical work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xu
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Spinal and Neural Functional Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute of Rehabilitation Science, Beijing, China
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Zuliyaer Talifu
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Spinal and Neural Functional Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute of Rehabilitation Science, Beijing, China
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences and Engineering, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Chun-Jia Zhang
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Spinal and Neural Functional Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute of Rehabilitation Science, Beijing, China
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Gao
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Spinal and Neural Functional Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute of Rehabilitation Science, Beijing, China
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Han Ke
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Spinal and Neural Functional Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute of Rehabilitation Science, Beijing, China
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences and Engineering, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Yun-Zhu Pan
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Spinal and Neural Functional Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute of Rehabilitation Science, Beijing, China
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences and Engineering, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Han Gong
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Spinal and Neural Functional Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute of Rehabilitation Science, Beijing, China
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Hua-Yong Du
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Spinal and Neural Functional Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute of Rehabilitation Science, Beijing, China
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Yu
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute of Rehabilitation Science, Beijing, China
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Ying-Li Jing
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute of Rehabilitation Science, Beijing, China
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Liang-Jie Du
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Spinal and Neural Functional Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute of Rehabilitation Science, Beijing, China
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Jun Li
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Spinal and Neural Functional Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute of Rehabilitation Science, Beijing, China
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences and Engineering, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- *Correspondence: Jian-Jun Li
| | - De-Gang Yang
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Spinal and Neural Functional Reconstruction, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- Chinese Institute of Rehabilitation Science, Beijing, China
- Center of Neural Injury and Repair, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
- De-Gang Yang
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10
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Hardy EJO, Inns TB, Hatt J, Doleman B, Bass JJ, Atherton PJ, Lund JN, Phillips BE. The time course of disuse muscle atrophy of the lower limb in health and disease. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 2022; 13:2616-2629. [PMID: 36104842 PMCID: PMC9745468 DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.13067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Short, intermittent episodes of disuse muscle atrophy (DMA) may have negative impact on age related muscle loss. There is evidence of variability in rate of DMA between muscles and over the duration of immobilization. As yet, this is poorly characterized. This review aims to establish and compare the time-course of DMA in immobilized human lower limb muscles in both healthy and critically ill individuals, exploring evidence for an acute phase of DMA and differential rates of atrophy between and muscle groups. MEDLINE, Embase, CINHAL and CENTRAL databases were searched from inception to April 2021 for any study of human lower limb immobilization reporting muscle volume, cross-sectional area (CSA), architecture or lean leg mass over multiple post-immobilization timepoints. Risk of bias was assessed using ROBINS-I. Where possible meta-analysis was performed using a DerSimonian and Laird random effects model with effect sizes reported as mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) at various time-points and a narrative review when meta-analysis was not possible. Twenty-nine studies were included, 12 in healthy volunteers (total n = 140), 18 in patients on an Intensive Therapy Unit (ITU) (total n = 516) and 3 in patients with ankle fracture (total n = 39). The majority of included studies are at moderate risk of bias. Rate of quadriceps atrophy over the first 14 days was significantly greater in the ITU patients (MD -1.01 95% CI -1.32, -0.69), than healthy cohorts (MD -0.12 95% CI -0.49, 0.24) (P < 0.001). Rates of atrophy appeared to vary between muscle groups (greatest in triceps surae (-11.2% day 28), followed by quadriceps (-9.2% day 28), then hamstrings (-6.5% day 28), then foot dorsiflexors (-3.2% day 28)). Rates of atrophy appear to decrease over time in healthy quadriceps (-6.5% day 14 vs. -9.1% day 28) and triceps surae (-7.8% day 14 vs. -11.2% day 28), and ITU quadriceps (-13.2% day 7 vs. -28.2% day 14). There appears to be variability in the rate of DMA between muscle groups, and more rapid atrophy during the earliest period of immobilization, indicating different mechanisms being dominant at different timepoints. Rates of atrophy are greater amongst critically unwell patients. Overall evidence is limited, and existing data has wide variability in the measures reported. Further work is required to fully characterize the time course of DMA in both health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J O Hardy
- Department of General Surgery, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, UK.,Centre Of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Derby, UK
| | - Thomas B Inns
- Centre Of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Derby, UK.,MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research (CMAR) and NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Jacob Hatt
- Department of General Surgery, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, UK.,Centre Of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Derby, UK
| | - Brett Doleman
- Centre Of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Derby, UK.,Department of Anaesthetics, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, UK
| | - Joseph J Bass
- Centre Of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Derby, UK.,MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research (CMAR) and NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Philip J Atherton
- Centre Of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Derby, UK.,MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research (CMAR) and NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Jonathan N Lund
- Department of General Surgery, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, UK.,Centre Of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Derby, UK
| | - Bethan E Phillips
- Centre Of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Derby, UK.,MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research (CMAR) and NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
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11
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Hohl K, Smith AC, Macaluso R, Giffhorn M, Prokup S, O’Dell DR, Kleinschmidt L, Elliott JM, Jayaraman A. Muscle adaptations in acute SCI following overground exoskeleton + FES training: A pilot study. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2022; 3:963771. [PMID: 36311207 PMCID: PMC9608781 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2022.963771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the combined effects of robotic exoskeleton and functional electrical stimulation (FES) training on muscle composition during over-ground gait training in persons with acute spinal cord injury (SCI). Design Randomized crossover pilot study. Setting Inpatient-rehabilitation Hospital. Participants Six individuals with acute SCI. Intervention Participants were randomized to either receive training with the Ekso® Bionics exoskeleton combined with FES in addition to standard-of-care or standard-of-care alone. Outcome measures The main outcome measures for the study were quantified using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), specifically, lower extremity muscle volume and intramuscular adipose tissue (IMAT). Static balance and fall risk were assessed using the Berg Balance Scale. Results Significant improvements were observed in muscle volume in the exoskeleton intervention group when compared to only standard-of-care (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the groups in IMAT even though the intervention group saw a reduction in IMAT that trended towards statistical significance (p = 0.07). Static balance improved in both groups, with greater improvements seen in the intervention group. Conclusions Early intervention with robotic exoskeleton may contribute to improved muscle function measured using MRI in individuals with acute SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Hohl
- Max Näder Lab for Rehabilitation Technologies / Outcomes Lab, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Andrew C. Smith
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy Program, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Rebecca Macaluso
- Max Näder Lab for Rehabilitation Technologies / Outcomes Lab, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Matthew Giffhorn
- Max Näder Lab for Rehabilitation Technologies / Outcomes Lab, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Sara Prokup
- Max Näder Lab for Rehabilitation Technologies / Outcomes Lab, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Denise R. O’Dell
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Kentucky College of Health Sciences, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Lina Kleinschmidt
- Department of Physical Therapy / Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Jim M. Elliott
- Department of Physical Therapy / Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States,Northern Sydney Local Health District, The Kolling Institute and Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, St. Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Arun Jayaraman
- Max Näder Lab for Rehabilitation Technologies / Outcomes Lab, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, United States,Department of Physical Therapy / Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States,Department of Physical Medicine / Rehabilitation, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States,Correspondence: Arun Jayaraman
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12
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Tay MRJ, Kong KH. Ultrasound Measurements of Rectus Femoris and Locomotor Outcomes in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12071073. [PMID: 35888161 PMCID: PMC9318631 DOI: 10.3390/life12071073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with incomplete spinal cord injury have decreased mobility, and many do not recover walking ability. The purpose of this study was to investigate rectus femoris muscle thickness and echo intensity on ultrasound and functional outcomes in these patients. This was a prospective cohort study in an inpatient rehabilitation center, which recruited 40 consecutive patients with incomplete spinal cord injury. The patients underwent an ultrasound assessment at 6 weeks post-injury. Ultrasound measurements were performed using B-mode ultrasound scanning and standardized protocols. Functional outcomes on discharge, including Lower Extremity Muscle Score (LEMS), Functional Independence Measure (FIM), and Walking Index for Spinal Cord Injury II (WISCI II), were measured. Rectus femoris muscle thickness was significantly correlated with discharge LEMS (Spearman’s rho = 0.448; p = 0.004), FIM motor subscale (Spearman’s rho = 0.595; p < 0.001), FIM walk subscale (Spearman’s rho = 0.621; p < 0.001) and WISCI II (Spearman’s rho = 0.531; p < 0.001). The rectus femoris echo intensity was also significantly correlated with discharge LEMS (Spearman’s rho = −0.345; p = 0.029), FIM motor subscale (Spearman’s rho = −0.413; p = 0.008), FIM walk subscale (Spearman’s rho = −0.352; p = 0.026), and WISCI II (Spearman’s rho = −0.355; p = 0.025). We report that a relationship exists between rectus femoris muscle ultrasonographic characteristics and muscle function and ambulatory outcomes after inpatient rehabilitation. Ultrasound muscle measurements are potentially useful in assessing muscle wasting and function in patients with spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Rong Jie Tay
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore 308433, Singapore;
- Centre of Rehabilitation Excellence, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore 308433, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 308232, Singapore
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +65-64506164
| | - Keng He Kong
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore 308433, Singapore;
- Centre of Rehabilitation Excellence, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore 308433, Singapore
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13
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Panisset MG, El-Ansary D, Dunlop SA, Marshall R, Clark J, Churilov L, Galea MP. Factors influencing thigh muscle volume change with cycling exercises in acute spinal cord injury - a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. J Spinal Cord Med 2022; 45:510-521. [PMID: 32970970 PMCID: PMC9246176 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2020.1815480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: To conduct a per-protocol analysis on thigh muscle volume outcomes from the Spinal Cord Injury and Physical Activity (SCIPA) Switch-On Trial.Design: Secondary analysis from an assessor-blind randomized, controlled trial.Setting: Four acute/sub-acute hospitals in Australia and New Zealand.Participants: 24 adults (1 female) within four weeks of motor complete or incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI)Intervention: Functional electrical stimulation-assisted cycling (FESC) or passive cycling (PC) 4x/week for 12 weeks.Outcome Measures: Whole thigh and muscle group volumes calculated from manually segmented MR images.Results: 19/24 participants completed ≥ twelve weeks of the intervention. Five participants experienced hypertrophy (4 FESC; 1 PC) and eight attenuation of atrophy (<20% volume loss) (3 FESC; 5 PC) in thigh muscle volume. Six participants were non-responders, exhibiting atrophy >20% (3 FESC; 3 PC). Mean (SD) change for FESC was -2.3% (25.3%) and PC was -14.0% (12.3%). After controlling for baseline muscle volumes, a strong significant correlation was found between mean weekly exercise frequency and quadriceps and hamstring volumes (r=6.25, P=0.006), regardless of mode. Average watts was highly correlated to quadriceps volumes only (r=5.92, P=0.01), while total number of sessions was strongly correlated with hamstring volumes only (r=5.91, P=0.01).Conclusion: This per-protocol analysis of FESC and PC early after SCI reports a partial response in 42% and a beneficial response in 25% of patients who completed 12 weeks intervention, regardless of mode. Strong correlations show a dose-response according to exercise frequency. Characteristics of non-responders are discussed to inform clinical decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya G. Panisset
- Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia,Correspondence to: Maya G. Panisset, Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital), The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC3052, Australia; Ph: (+61) 0405 027 127.
| | - Doa El-Ansary
- Department of Nursing and Allied Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorne, Australia,Department of Physiotherapy, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Sarah Alison Dunlop
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Ruth Marshall
- Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre, Northfield, Australia
| | - Jillian Clark
- Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre, Lightsview, Australia
| | | | - Mary P. Galea
- Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital), University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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14
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Chen S, Wang Z, Li Y, Tang J, Wang X, Huang L, Fang Z, Xu T, Xu J, Guo F, Wang Y, Long J, Wang X, Liu F, Luo J, Wang Y, Huang X, Jia Z, Shuai M, Li J. Safety and Feasibility of a Novel Exoskeleton for Locomotor Rehabilitation of Subjects With Spinal Cord Injury: A Prospective, Multi-Center, and Cross-Over Clinical Trial. Front Neurorobot 2022; 16:848443. [PMID: 35645758 PMCID: PMC9133609 DOI: 10.3389/fnbot.2022.848443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the safety, walking efficiency, physiological cost, don and doff time cost, and user satisfaction of Ai-robot. Design Prospective, multi-center, and cross-over trial. Subjects Paraplegic subjects (n = 40) with T6-L2 level spinal cord injury. Methods Subjects who could walk independently using Aiwalker, Ailegs, and hip knee ankle foot orthosis (HKAFO) for 6 min within 30 days of training underwent 10 sets of tests. In each set, they completed three 6-min walk test (6MWT) sessions using the three aids in random order. Results Skin lesions, pressure sores, and fractures, were the main adverse events, likely due to a lack of experience in using exoskeleton systems. The average 6MWT distances of the Aiwalker, Ailegs, and HKAFO groups were 134.20 ± 18.74, 79.71 ± 18.06, and 48.31 ± 19.87 m, respectively. The average heart rate increases in the Aiwalker (4.21 ± 8.20%) and Ailegs (41.81 ± 23.47%) groups were both significantly lower than that in the HKAFO group (62.33 ± 28.32%) (both p < 0.001). The average donning/doffing time costs for Ailegs and Aiwalker were significantly shorter than that of HKAFO (both p < 0.001). Satisfaction was higher in the Ailegs and Aiwalker groups (both p < 0.001). Conclusion Subjects with paraplegia below T6 level were able to ambulate safely and efficiently with Ai-robot. The use of Ai-robot should be learned under the guidance of experienced medical personnel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijing Chen
- Center of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Zhongshan Geriatric Rehabilitation Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhanbin Wang
- School of Automation Science and Electrical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Yongqiang Li
- Center of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Zhongshan Geriatric Rehabilitation Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiashuai Tang
- Jiangsu Zhongshan Geriatric Rehabilitation Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Xue Wang
- Center of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Zhongshan Geriatric Rehabilitation Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Liping Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuangwei Fang
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiang Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Guo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yizhao Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianjun Long
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jianfeng Luo
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Health Technology Assessment, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yulong Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaolin Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zishan Jia
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Mei Shuai
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianan Li
- Center of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Zhongshan Geriatric Rehabilitation Hospital, Nanjing, China
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15
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Evaluation of the Cardiometabolic Disorders after Spinal Cord Injury in Mice. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11040495. [PMID: 35453695 PMCID: PMC9027794 DOI: 10.3390/biology11040495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Changes in cardiometabolic functions contribute to increased morbidity and mortality after chronic spinal cord injury. Despite many advancements in discovering SCI-induced pathologies, the cardiometabolic risks and divergences in severity-related responses have yet to be elucidated. Here, we examined the effects of SCI severity on functional recovery and cardiometabolic functions following moderate (50 kdyn) and severe (75 kdyn) contusions in the thoracic-8 (T8) vertebrae in mice using imaging, morphometric, and molecular analyses. Both severities reduced hindlimbs motor functions, body weight (g), and total body fat (%) at all-time points up to 20 weeks post-injury (PI), while only severe SCI reduced the total body lean (%). Severe SCI increased liver echogenicity starting from 12 weeks PI, with an increase in liver fibrosis in both moderate and severe SCI. Severe SCI mice showed a significant reduction in left ventricular internal diameters and LV volume at 20 weeks PI, associated with increased LV ejection fraction as well as cardiac fibrosis. These cardiometabolic dysfunctions were accompanied by changes in the inflammation profile, varying with the severity of the injury, but not in the lipid profile nor cardiac or hepatic tyrosine hydroxylase innervation changes, suggesting that systemic inflammation may be involved in these SCI-induced health complications.
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16
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Zhang Y, Du G, Zhan Y, Guo K, Zheng Y, Tang L, Guo J, Liang J. Muscle Atrophy Evaluation via Radiomics Analysis using Ultrasound Images: A Cohort Data Study. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2022; 69:3163-3174. [PMID: 35324432 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2022.3162223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Existing methods for muscle atrophy evaluation based on muscle size measures from ultrasound images are inadequate in precision. Radiomics has been widely used in various medical studies, but its validity for the evaluation of muscle atrophy has not been fully explored. METHODS This study presents a radiomics analysis for muscle atrophy evaluation using ultrasound images. The hindlimb unloading rat model was developed to simulate weightlessness muscle atrophy and ultrasound images of the hind limbs were acquired for both the hindlimb unloaded (HU) and control groups during a 21-day HU period. A total of 368 radiomics features were extracted and the stable and informative features were selected through a two-stage feature selection procedure. The feature change trajectory of the stable features was analyzed using the hierarchical clustering method. Finally, an adaptive longitudinal feature selection and grading network, ALNet, was developed to evaluate muscle atrophy. RESULTS The clustering trajectories of ultrasound image features showed similar trends to the changes in muscle atrophy at the molecular level. The best grading accuracy achieved by the ALNet was 79.5% for the Soleus (Sol) muscle and 82.6% for the Gastrocnemius (Gas) muscle. CONCLUSION The test-retest is essential in performing radiomics analysis on ultrasound images. The longitudinal feature selection is important for muscle atrophy grading. The ultrasound image features of the Gas muscle have better discrimination ability than that of the Sol muscle. This study proves for the first time the capability of ultrasound image features for muscle atrophy evaluation.
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17
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The effects of spasticity on glucose metabolism and soft tissue body composition in patients with spinal cord injury. Turk J Phys Med Rehabil 2022; 68:46-54. [PMID: 35949969 PMCID: PMC9305643 DOI: 10.5606/tftrd.2022.6310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives
The aim of this study was to assess the effects of spasticity on glucose metabolism and percentage of fat-free mass (FFM%) in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).
Patients and methods
A total of 33 patients (22 males, 11 females; mean age: 38.6±12.5 years; range, 20 to 64 years) with SCI defined by the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale Grades A to D were included between September 2014 and May 2018. We assessed spasticity with the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) and evaluated spasms with the Penn Spasm Frequency Scale (PSFS). We assessed the glucose metabolism by calculating the Matsuda and HOMA-IR index, and measured FFM% by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.
Results
Fourteen patients had motor complete, and 19 had motor incomplete SCI. The neurological injury levels of the patients were C4-T12. There was a positive correlation between hip adductor muscle MAS and trunk, android, and gynoid FFM% and between hip extensor muscle MAS and android FFM% in patients with motor complete SCI. Hip extensor and knee flexor muscle MAS showed a negative correlation with the HOMA-IR. Hip adductor and extensor muscle MAS, as well as knee flexor and extensor muscle MAS, had a positive correlation with the Matsuda index in these patients. There was a positive correlation between knee extensor muscle MAS and gynoid FFM% and between PSFS and arms, trunk, gynoid, and total FFM% in patients with motor incomplete SCI. There was a negative correlation between hip adductor and extensor muscle MAS, PSFS, and level of fasting glucose in these patients.
Conclusion
This study supports the notion that spasticity has positive effects on the FFM% and glucose metabolism in patients with motor complete and incomplete SCI.
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18
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Silverman JD, Balbinot G, Masani K, Zariffa J, Eng P. Validity and Reliability of Surface Electromyography Features in Lower Extremity Muscle Contraction in Healthy and Spinal Cord-Injured Participants. Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil 2021; 27:14-27. [PMID: 34866885 DOI: 10.46292/sci20-00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI) has a significant impact on motor control and active force generation. Quantifying muscle activation following SCI may help indicate the degree of motor impairment and predict the efficacy of rehabilitative interventions. In healthy persons, muscle activation is typically quantified by electromyographic (EMG) signal amplitude measures. However, in SCI, these measures may not reflect voluntary effort, and therefore other nonamplitude-based features should be considered. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the correlation of time-domain EMG features with the exerted joint torque (validity) and their test-retest repeatability (reliability), which may contribute to characterizing muscle activation following SCI. Methods: Surface EMG (SEMG) and torque were measured while nine uninjured participants and four participants with SCI performed isometric contractions of tibialis anterior (TA) and soleus (SOL). Data collection was repeated at a subsequent session for comparison across days. Validity and test-retest reliability of features were assessed by Spearman and intraclass correlation (ICC) of linear regression coefficients. Results: In healthy participants, SEMG features correlated well with torque (TA: ρ > 0.92; SOL: ρ > 0.94) and showed high reliability (ICCmean = 0.90; range, 0.72-0.99). In an SCI case series, SEMG features also correlated well with torque (TA: ρ > 0.86; SOL: ρ > 0.86), and time-domain features appeared no less repeatable than amplitude-based measures. Conclusion: Time-domain SEMG features are valid and reliable measures of lower extremity muscle activity in healthy participants and may be valid measures of sublesional muscle activity following SCI. These features could be used to gauge motor impairment and progression of rehabilitative interventions or in controlling assistive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Daniel Silverman
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,KITE - Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gustavo Balbinot
- KITE - Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kei Masani
- KITE - Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - José Zariffa
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,KITE - Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Edward S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - P Eng
- KITE - Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Edward S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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19
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Huang H, Xue J, Zheng J, Tian H, Fang Y, Wang W, Wang G, Hou D, Lin J. Bioinformatic analysis of the gene expression profile in muscle atrophy after spinal cord injury. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21903. [PMID: 34754020 PMCID: PMC8578571 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01302-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is often accompanied by muscle atrophy; however, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, the molecular mechanisms of muscle atrophy following SCI were investigated. The GSE45550 gene expression profile of control (before SCI) and experimental (14 days following SCI) groups, consisting of Sprague–Dawley rat soleus muscle (n = 6 per group), was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and then differentially expressed gene (DEG) identification and Gene Ontology, pathway, pathway network, and gene signal network analyses were performed. A total of 925 differentially expressed genes, 149 biological processes, and 55 pathways were screened. In the pathway network analysis, the 10 most important pathways were citrate cycle (TCA cycle), pyruvate metabolism, MAPK signalling pathway, fatty acid degradation, propanoate metabolism, apoptosis, focal adhesion, synthesis and degradation of ketone bodies, Wnt signalling, and cancer pathways. In the gene signal network analysis, the 10 most important genes were Acat1, Acadvl, Acaa2, Hadhb, Acss1, Oxct1, Hadha, Hadh, Acaca, and Cpt1b. Thus, we screened the key genes and pathways that may be involved in muscle atrophy after SCI and provided support for finding valuable markers for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Huang
- Department of Sports Medicine, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, 570311, Hainan, China
| | - Jinju Xue
- Department of Geriatrics, Affiliated Haikou Hospital, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Haikou, 570208, Hainan, China
| | - Jiaxuan Zheng
- Department of Pathology, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, 570311, Hainan, China
| | - Haiquan Tian
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Second People's Hospital of Changzhi, Changzhi, 046000, Shanxi, China
| | - Yehan Fang
- Department of Sports Medicine, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, 570311, Hainan, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Emergency, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, 570311, Hainan, China
| | - Guangji Wang
- Department of Sports Medicine, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, 570311, Hainan, China
| | - Dan Hou
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Haikou Hospital, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Haikou, 570208, Hainan, China.
| | - Jianping Lin
- Department of Joint Surgery, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, 570311, Hainan, China.
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20
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Wu X, Xu X, Liu Q, Ding J, Liu J, Huang Z, Huang Z, Wu X, Li R, Yang Z, Jiang H, Liu J, Zhu Q. Unilateral cervical spinal cord injury induces bone loss and metabolic changes in non-human primates ( Macaca fascicularis). J Orthop Translat 2021; 29:113-122. [PMID: 34178602 PMCID: PMC8193057 DOI: 10.1016/j.jot.2021.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE The deleterious effects of chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) on the skeleton in rats, especially the lower extremities, has been proved previously. However, the long-term skeletal changes after SCI in non-human primates (NHP) have been scarcely studied. This study aimed to evaluate the bone loss in limbs and vertebrae and the bone metabolic changes in NHP after unilateral cervical spinal cord contusion injury. METHODS Twelve Macaca fascicularis were randomly divided into the SCI (n=8) and the Sham (n=4) groups. The SCI models were established using hemi-contusion cervical spinal cord injury on fifth cervical vertebra (C5), and were further evaluated by histological staining and neurophysiological monitoring. Changes of bone microstructures, bone biomechanics, and bone metabolism markers were assessed by micro-CT, micro-FEA and serological kit. RESULTS The NHP hemi-contusion cervical SCI model led to consistent unilateral limb dysfunction and potential plasticity in the face of loss of spinal cord. Furthermore, the cancellous bone mass of ipsilateral humerus and radius decreased significantly compared to the contralateral side. The bone volume fraction of humerus and radius were 17.2% and 20.1% on the ipsilateral while 29.0% and 30.1% on the contralateral respectively. Similarly, the thickness of the cortical bone in the ipsilateral forelimbs was significantly decreased, as well as the bone strength of the ipsilateral forelimbs. These changes were accompanied by diminished concentration of osteocalcin and total procollagen type 1 N-terminal propeptide (t-P1NP) as well as increased level of β-C-terminal cross-linking telopeptide of type 1collagen (β-CTX) in serological testing. CONCLUSIONS The present study demonstrated that hemi-SCI induced loss of bone mass and compromised biomechanical performance in ipsilateral forelimbs, which could be indicated by both muscle atrophy and serological changes of bone metabolism, and associated with a consistent loss of large-diameter cells of sensory neurons in the dorsal root ganglia. THE TRANSLATIONAL POTENTIAL OF THIS ARTICLE Our study, for the first time, demonstrated the bone loss in limbs and vertebrae as well as the bone metabolic changes in non-human primates after unilateral spinal cord injury (SCI). This may help to elucidate the role of muscle atrophy, serological changes and loss of sensory neurons in the mechanisms of SCI-induced osteoporosis, which would be definitely better compared with rodent models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuhua Wu
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaolin Xu
- Department of Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jianyang Ding
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Junhao Liu
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhiping Huang
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zucheng Huang
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoliang Wu
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Rong Li
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhou Yang
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jie Liu
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Blusson Spinal Cord Center, Vancouver, BritishColumbia, Canada
| | - Qingan Zhu
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Goldsmith JA, Ennasr AN, Farkas GJ, Gater DR, Gorgey AS. Role of exercise on visceral adiposity after spinal cord injury: a cardiometabolic risk factor. Eur J Appl Physiol 2021; 121:2143-2163. [PMID: 33891156 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-021-04688-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is associated with cardiometabolic disease risk in able-bodied (AB) populations. However, the underlying mechanisms of VAT-induced disease risk are unknown in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). Potential mechanisms of VAT-induced cardiometabolic dysfunction in persons with SCI include systemic inflammation, liver adiposity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and anabolic deficiency. Moreover, how exercise interventions impact these mechanisms associated with VAT-induced cardiometabolic dysfunction are still being explored. METHODS A search for relevant scientific literature about the effects of exercise on VAT and cardiometabolic health was conducted on the PubMed database. Literature from reference lists was also included when appropriate. RESULTS Both aerobic and resistance exercise training beneficially impact health and VAT mass via improving mitochondrial function, glucose effectiveness, and inflammatory signaling in SCI and AB populations. Specifically, aerobic exercise appears to also modulate cellular senescence in AB populations and animal models, while resistance exercise seems to augment anabolic signaling in persons with SCI. CONCLUSIONS The current evidence supports regular engagement in exercise to reduce VAT mass and the adverse effects on cardiometabolic health in persons with SCI. Future research is needed to further elucidate the precise mechanisms by which VAT negatively impacts health following SCI. This will likely facilitate the development of rehabilitation protocols that target VAT reduction in persons with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob A Goldsmith
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Center, Central Virginia VA Health Care System, 1201 Broad Rock Boulevard, Richmond, VA, 23249, USA
| | - Areej N Ennasr
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Center, Central Virginia VA Health Care System, 1201 Broad Rock Boulevard, Richmond, VA, 23249, USA
| | - Gary J Farkas
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - David R Gater
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Ashraf S Gorgey
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Center, Central Virginia VA Health Care System, 1201 Broad Rock Boulevard, Richmond, VA, 23249, USA. .,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA.
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22
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Gonnelli F, Rejc E, Giovanelli N, Floreani M, Porcelli S, Harkema S, Willhite A, Stills S, Richardson T, Lazzer S. Effects of NMES pulse width and intensity on muscle mechanical output and oxygen extraction in able-bodied and paraplegic individuals. Eur J Appl Physiol 2021; 121:1653-1664. [PMID: 33656575 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-021-04647-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) is commonly used in neuromuscular rehabilitation protocols, and its parameters selection substantially affects the characteristics of muscle activation. Here, we investigated the effects of short pulse width (200 µs) and higher intensity (short-high) NMES or long pulse width (1000 µs) and lower intensity (long-low) NMES on muscle mechanical output and fractional oxygen extraction. Muscle contractions were elicited with 100 Hz stimulation frequency, and the initial torque output was matched by adjusting stimulation intensity. METHODS Fourteen able-bodied and six spinal cord-injured (SCI) individuals participated in the study. The NMES protocol (75 isometric contractions, 1-s on-3-s off) targeting the knee extensors was performed with long-low or short-high NMES applied over the midline between anterior superior iliac spine and patella protrusion in two different days. Muscle work was estimated by torque-time integral, contractile properties by rate of torque development and half-relaxation time, and vastus lateralis fractional oxygen extraction was assessed by Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS). RESULTS Torque-time integral elicited by the two NMES paradigms was similar throughout the stimulation protocol, with differences ranging between 1.4% (p = 0.877; able-bodied, mid-part of the protocol) and 9.9% (p = 0.147; SCI, mid-part of the protocol). Contractile properties were also comparable in the two NMES paradigms. However, long-low NMES resulted in higher fractional oxygen extraction in able-bodied (+ 36%; p = 0.006). CONCLUSION Long-low and short-high NMES recruited quadriceps femoris motor units that demonstrated similar contractile and fatigability properties. However, long-low NMES conceivably resulted in the preferential recruitment of vastus lateralis muscle fibers as detected by NIRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Gonnelli
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.,School of Sport Sciences, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.,Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, 220 Abraham Flexner Way, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
| | - Enrico Rejc
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, 220 Abraham Flexner Way, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA. .,Department of Neurosurgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA.
| | - Nicola Giovanelli
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.,School of Sport Sciences, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Mirco Floreani
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.,School of Sport Sciences, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Simone Porcelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
| | - Susan Harkema
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, 220 Abraham Flexner Way, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA.,Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Andrea Willhite
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, 220 Abraham Flexner Way, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
| | - Sean Stills
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, 220 Abraham Flexner Way, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
| | - Tine Richardson
- Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, 220 Abraham Flexner Way, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
| | - Stefano Lazzer
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.,School of Sport Sciences, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
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Murray D, Keyser RE, Chin LMK, Bulea TC, Wutzke CJ, Guccione AA. EMG median frequency shifts without change in muscle oxygenation following novel locomotor training in individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury. Disabil Rehabil 2020; 44:52-58. [PMID: 32331508 PMCID: PMC10367183 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1755729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: To examine the effect of muscle fiber recruitment patterns on muscle oxygen utilization during treadmill walking in a group of individuals who have incomplete spinal cord injury.Methods: 5 participants with motor incomplete spinal cord injury (Age; 42.2 ± 18.8 years, Male; n = 4) completed an over ground locomotor training program. Muscle utilization/oxygenation and activation of the medial gastrocnemius were measured by near infrared spectroscopy and surface electromyography pre- and post-over ground locomotor training during two separate treadmill walking bouts at self-selected speeds. Outcomes were changes in deoxygenation hemoglobin/myoglobin concentrations, and the change in median power of the power spectrum of the electromyography after training.Results: A significant increase in median power of the power spectrum of the electromyography signal was observed during both bouts of treadmill walking, 6-minute walking bout and longer fatiguing bout (49% p = 0.047 and 48% p = 0.035, respectively) post-over ground locomotor training. There was no significant change in muscle utilization/oxygenation post-over ground locomotor training. There was no significant effect of median power of the power spectrum on deoxygenation hemoglobin/myoglobin during either of the walking bouts.Conclusions: The main finding of the current study was that median power of the power spectrum significantly increased following 12 weeks of over ground locomotor training, with no significant change in deoxygenation hemoglobin/myoglobin. The recruitment of more and/or larger motor units was seen in conjunction with no changes in muscle oxygen utilization for the same walking task.Implications for RehabilitationThe reduction of skeletal muscle innervation in Spinal Cord Injury may adversely affect the orderly recruitment of motor units, which could in turn blunt the oxidative metabolic response during physical activity.Over-ground locomotor could be a useful tool in the rehabilitative process following an incomplete spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donal Murray
- Department of Kinesiology, Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL, USA
| | - Randall E Keyser
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Lisa M K Chin
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, National Institutes of Health, Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Thomas C Bulea
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, National Institutes of Health, Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Clinton J Wutzke
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Andrew A Guccione
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
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Novel stochastic framework for automatic segmentation of human thigh MRI volumes and its applications in spinal cord injured individuals. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216487. [PMID: 31071158 PMCID: PMC6508923 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to skeletal muscle atrophy and adipose tissue infiltration in the skeletal muscle, which can result in compromised muscle mechanical output and lead to health-related complications. In this study, we developed a novel automatic 3-D approach for volumetric segmentation and quantitative assessment of thigh Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) volumes in individuals with chronic SCI as well as non-disabled individuals. In this framework, subcutaneous adipose tissue, inter-muscular adipose tissue and total muscle tissue are segmented using linear combination of discrete Gaussians algorithm. Also, three thigh muscle groups were segmented utilizing the proposed 3-D Joint Markov Gibbs Random Field model that integrates first order appearance model, spatial information, and shape model to localize the muscle groups. The accuracy of the automatic segmentation method was tested both on SCI (N = 16) and on non-disabled (N = 14) individuals, showing an overall 0.93±0.06 accuracy for adipose tissue and muscle compartments segmentation based on Dice Similarity Coefficient. The proposed framework for muscle compartment segmentation showed an overall higher accuracy compared to ANTs and STAPLE, two previously validated atlas-based segmentation methods. Also, the framework proposed in this study showed similar Dice accuracy and better Hausdorff distance measure to that obtained using DeepMedic Convolutional Neural Network structure, a well-known deep learning network for 3-D medical image segmentation. The automatic segmentation method proposed in this study can provide fast and accurate quantification of adipose and muscle tissues, which have important health and functional implications in the SCI population.
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25
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Arpin DJ, Forrest G, Harkema SJ, Rejc E. Submaximal Marker for Investigating Peak Muscle Torque Using Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation after Paralysis. J Neurotrauma 2018; 36:930-936. [PMID: 30226407 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2018.5848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in deleterious skeletal muscle adaptations, such as relevant atrophy and loss of force. In particular, the relevant loss of lower-limb force-generating capacity may limit functional mobility even if neuronal control was sufficient. Currently, methods of assessing maximal force-generating capacity using neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) are limited in individuals who cannot tolerate higher stimulation amplitudes, such as those with residual sensation and those at risk of fracture. In this study, we examined the relationship between NMES amplitude and muscle torque exerted (recruitment curve) in order to determine whether maximal torque output can be characterized by a submaximal marker. Recruitment curves for knee extensors, knee flexors, and ankle plantarflexors were recorded from 30 individuals with motor complete SCI. NMES was delivered starting with an amplitude of 5 mA, and increasing by 5 mA for every subsequent stimulation until either the participant requested to stop the stimulation or the maximum stimulation amplitude (140 mA) was reached. Significant correlations between peak slope of the recruitment curve and peak torque for all muscle groups were found (knee extensors, r = 0.75; p < 0.0001; knee flexors, r = 0.68; p < 0.0001; ankle plantarflexors, r = 0.91; p < 0.0001), indicating that muscles that show greater peak slope of the recruitment curve tend to generate a greater peak torque. This suggests that peak slope, which was achieved at an average stimulation intensity (55.0 mA) that was 43% smaller than that corresponding to peak torque (97.4 mA), may be used as a submaximal marker for characterizing maximal torque output in individuals with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Arpin
- 1 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky.,2 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Gail Forrest
- 3 Human Performance and Engineering Research, Kessler Foundation, West Orange, New Jersey.,4 Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Susan J Harkema
- 1 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky.,2 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky.,5 Frazier Rehab Institute, Kentucky One Health, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Enrico Rejc
- 1 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky.,2 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
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26
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Abstract
CONTENT Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) results in physiological changes that markedly reduces whole-body metabolism, resulting in neurogenic obesity via adipose tissue accumulation. Adipose tissue has been implicated in the release of proinflammatory adipokines that lead to chronic, systemic inflammation, and evidence suggests these adipokines contribute to the pathogeneses of metabolic diseases that often accompany obesity. In this review, we propose the concept of neurogenic obesity through paralysis-induced adiposity as the primary source of systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction reported in chronic SCI. We also briefly discuss how exercise in SCI can attenuate the negative consequences of obesity-induced inflammation and its comorbidities. METHODS A MEDLINE, PubMed, Google Scholar, and ClinicalKey search was performed using the following search terms: obesity, adiposity, adipose tissue, proinflammatory adipokines, proinflammatory cytokines, metabolic dysfunction, exercise, physical activity, and spinal cord injury. All papers identified were full-text, English language papers. The reference list of identified papers was also searched for additional papers. RESULTS Research suggests that obesity in SCI results in a state of chronic, systemic inflammation primarily through proinflammatory adipokines secreted from excess adipose tissue. The reduction of adipose tissue through the use of diet and exercise demonstrates promise to combat neurogenic obesity, inflammation, and cardiometabolic dysfunction in SCI. CONCLUSION Proinflammatory adipokines may serve as biomarkers for the development of obesity-related complication in SCI. Mechanistic and interventional studies on neurogenic obesity-induced inflammation in chronic SCI are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary J. Farkas
- Correspondence to: Gary J. Farkas Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State College of Medicine, 500 University Drive, P.O. Box 850, Mail Code R120, Hershey, Pennsylvania 17033-0850, USA; Phone: 717-531-0003, x284930, 717-531-0354.
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27
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Moore CD, Craven BC, Thabane L, Papaioannou A, Adachi JD, Giangregorio LM. Does Muscle Atrophy and Fatty Infiltration Plateau or Persist in Chronic Spinal Cord Injury? J Clin Densitom 2018; 21:329-337. [PMID: 28709751 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocd.2017.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Revised: 06/04/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Atrophy and fatty infiltration of lower extremity muscle after spinal cord injury (SCI) predisposes individuals to metabolic syndrome and related diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The objective of this study was to prospectively measure changes in muscle atrophy and fat content of distal lower extremity muscles and explore related factors in a cohort of adults with chronic SCI and diverse impairments. Muscle cross-sectional area and density were calculated from peripheral quantitative computed tomography scans of the 66% site of the calf from 70 participants with chronic SCI (50 male, mean age 49 years, C2-T12, American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale A-D) at study enrollment and annually for 2 years. Mixed-model repeated measures analysis of variance (rANOVA) examined longitudinal changes in muscle area and density, and regression analyses explored factors related to muscle changes using 16 potential correlates selected a priori. A high degree of individual variation in muscle area and density change was observed over 2 years (range: 8.5 to -22.6 cm2; 6.4 to -8.6 mg/cm3). Repeated measures analysis of variance revealed significant reductions in muscle area (estimated mean difference [95% confidence intervals] -1.76 [-3.29 to -0.23]) cm2, p = 0.025) and density (-1.04 [-1.94 to -0.14] mg/cm3, p < 0.024); however, changes in area were not significant with outliers removed. Regression analyses explained a small proportion of the variability in muscle density change; however, none of the preselected variables were significantly related to changes in muscle density after post hoc sensitivity analyses. Lower extremity muscle size and fat content may not reach a "steady-state" after chronic SCI. Progressive atrophy and fatty infiltration of lower extremity muscle may have adverse implications for metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease risk and related mortality after chronic SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron D Moore
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - B Catharine Craven
- Brain and Spinal Cord Rehabilitation Program, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Lehana Thabane
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Alexandra Papaioannou
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Lora M Giangregorio
- Brain and Spinal Cord Rehabilitation Program, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
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28
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Otzel DM, Lee J, Ye F, Borst SE, Yarrow JF. Activity-Based Physical Rehabilitation with Adjuvant Testosterone to Promote Neuromuscular Recovery after Spinal Cord Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19061701. [PMID: 29880749 PMCID: PMC6032131 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19061701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromuscular impairment and reduced musculoskeletal integrity are hallmarks of spinal cord injury (SCI) that hinder locomotor recovery. These impairments are precipitated by the neurological insult and resulting disuse, which has stimulated interest in activity-based physical rehabilitation therapies (ABTs) that promote neuromuscular plasticity after SCI. However, ABT efficacy declines as SCI severity increases. Additionally, many men with SCI exhibit low testosterone, which may exacerbate neuromusculoskeletal impairment. Incorporating testosterone adjuvant to ABTs may improve musculoskeletal recovery and neuroplasticity because androgens attenuate muscle loss and the slow-to-fast muscle fiber-type transition after SCI, in a manner independent from mechanical strain, and promote motoneuron survival. These neuromusculoskeletal benefits are promising, although testosterone alone produces only limited functional improvement in rodent SCI models. In this review, we discuss the (1) molecular deficits underlying muscle loss after SCI; (2) independent influences of testosterone and locomotor training on neuromuscular function and musculoskeletal integrity post-SCI; (3) hormonal and molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic efficacy of these strategies; and (4) evidence supporting a multimodal strategy involving ABT with adjuvant testosterone, as a potential means to promote more comprehensive neuromusculoskeletal recovery than either strategy alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana M Otzel
- Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA.
| | - Jimmy Lee
- Research Service, Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA.
| | - Fan Ye
- Research Service, Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA.
| | - Stephen E Borst
- Department of Applied Physiology, Kinesiology and University of Florida College of Health and Human Performance, Gainesville, FL 32603, USA.
| | - Joshua F Yarrow
- Research Service, Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA.
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
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Smith AC, Knikou M, Yelick KL, Alexander AR, Murnane MM, Kritselis AA, Houmpavlis PJ, McPherson JG, Wasielewski M, Hoggarth MA, Elliott JM. MRI measures of fat infiltration in the lower extremities following motor incomplete spinal cord injury: reliability and potential implications for muscle activation. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2017; 2016:5451-5456. [PMID: 28269491 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2016.7591960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Muscle fat infiltration (MFI) is an expected consequence of incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI). The MFI magnitude may have clinical value in determining functional recovery. However, there is a lack of understanding of how MFI relates to the volitional muscle activity in people with motor incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI). Five iSCI and 5 uninjured age-matched control subjects participated in the study. In this preliminary study, we established the reliability of MFI quantification of select lower extremity muscles across different raters. Secondly, we assessed the magnitude and distribution of MFI in the lower legs of iSCI and uninjured control participants. Thirdly, we explored the relationship between MFI in the plantar flexor muscles and the ability to volitionally activate these muscles. High levels of inter-rater reliability were observed. The iSCI group had significantly elevated and a vastly different MFI distribution in the lower leg muscles compared to healthy controls. MFI was negatively correlated with volitional activation in iSCI. Our preliminary results sanction the importance of lower extremity MFI quantification as a potential measure in determining the functional outcomes in iSCI, and the subsequent pathological sequelae.
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30
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Gollie JM, Herrick JE, Keyser RE, Chin LMK, Collins JP, Shields RK, Panza GS, Guccione AA. Fatigability, oxygen uptake kinetics and muscle deoxygenation in incomplete spinal cord injury during treadmill walking. Eur J Appl Physiol 2017; 117:1989-2000. [PMID: 28744558 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-017-3685-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of the present study was to characterize hypothesized relationships among fatigability and cardiorespiratory fitness in individuals with chronic motor-incomplete SCI (iSCI) during treadmill walking. The theoretical framework was that exacerbated fatigability would occur concomitantly with diminished cardiorespiratory fitness in people with iSCI. METHODS Subjects with iSCI (n = 8) and an able-bodied reference group (REF) (n = 8) completed a 6-min walking bout followed by a walking bout of 30-min or until volitional exhaustion, both at a self-selected walking speed. Fatigability was assessed using both perceived fatigability and performance fatigability measures. Pulmonary oxygen uptake kinetics (VO2 on-kinetics) was measured breath-by-breath and changes in deoxygenated hemoglobin/myoglobin concentration (∆[HHb]) of the lateral gastrocnemius was measured by near-infrared spectroscopy. Adjustment of VO2 and ∆[HHb] on-kinetics were modeled using a mono-exponential equation. RESULTS Perceived fatigability and performance fatigability were 52% and 44% greater in the iSCI group compared to the REF group (p = 0.003 and p = 0.004). Phase II time constant (τp) of VO2 on-kinetics and ∆[HHb] ½ time during resting arterial occlusion were 55.4% and 16.3% slower in iSCI vs REF (p < 0.01 and p = 0.047, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The results of the present study may suggest that compromised O2 delivery and/or utilization may have contributed to the severity of fatigability in these individuals with iSCI. The understanding of the extent to which fatigability and VO2 and Δ[HHb] on-kinetics impacts locomotion after iSCI will assist in the future development of targeted interventions to enhance function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared M Gollie
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive MS2G7, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA.
| | - Jeffrey E Herrick
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive MS2G7, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA
| | - Randall E Keyser
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive MS2G7, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA
| | - Lisa M K Chin
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive MS2G7, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA
| | - John P Collins
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive MS2G7, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA
| | - Richard K Shields
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa, USA
| | - Gino S Panza
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive MS2G7, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA
| | - Andrew A Guccione
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive MS2G7, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA
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Smith AC, Weber KA, Parrish TB, Hornby TG, Tysseling VM, McPherson JG, Wasielewski M, Elliott JM. Ambulatory function in motor incomplete spinal cord injury: a magnetic resonance imaging study of spinal cord edema and lower extremity muscle morphometry. Spinal Cord 2017; 55:672-678. [PMID: 28244504 PMCID: PMC5501756 DOI: 10.1038/sc.2017.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2016] [Revised: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 01/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Study Design This research utilized a cross-sectional design. Objectives Spinal cord edema length has been measured with T2-weighted sagittal MRI to predict motor recovery following spinal cord injury. The purpose of our study was to establish the correlational value of axial spinal cord edema using T2-weighted MRI. We hypothesized a direct relationship between the size of damage on axial MRI and walking ability, motor function, and distal muscle changes seen in motor incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI). Setting University based laboratory in Chicago, IL USA. Methods Fourteen participants with iSCI took part in the study. Spinal cord axial damage ratios were assessed using axial T2-weighted MRI. Walking ability was investigated using the 6-minute walk test and daily stride counts. Maximum plantarflexion torque was quantified using isometric dynomometry. Muscle fat infiltration (MFI) and relative muscle cross sectional area (rmCSA) were quantified using fat/water separation magnetic resonance imaging. Results Damage ratios were negatively correlated with distance walked in 6 minutes, average daily strides, and maximum plantarflexion torque, and a negative linear trend was found between damage ratios and lower leg rmCSA. While damage ratios were not significantly correlated with MFI, we found significantly higher MFI in the wheelchair user participant group compared to community walkers. Conclusions Damage ratios may be useful in prognosis of motor recovery in spinal cord injury. The results warrant a large multi-site research study to investigate the value of high-resolution axial T2-weighted imaging to predict walking recovery following motor incomplete spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Smith
- Regis University School of Physical Therapy, Denver, CO, USA.,Northwestern University Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - K A Weber
- Stanford University Department of Anesthesia, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - T B Parrish
- Northwestern University Department of Radiology, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - T G Hornby
- Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - V M Tysseling
- Northwestern University Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - J G McPherson
- Florida International University Department of Biomedical Engineering, Miami, FL, USA
| | - M Wasielewski
- Northwestern University Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - J M Elliott
- Northwestern University Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Chicago, IL, USA
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Lower extremity muscle structure in incomplete spinal cord injury: a comparison between ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging. Spinal Cord Ser Cases 2017; 3:17004. [PMID: 28382216 DOI: 10.1038/scsandc.2017.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Revised: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ultrasound (US) measures of muscle thickness are used in the management and monitoring of muscle changes during rehabilitation, but it is unknown how this measure compares to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures of muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). CASE PRESENTATION Six participants with incomplete SCI underwent US imaging and MRI of their gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles. DISCUSSION Significant correlations were found between US muscle thickness and MRI CSA in the gastrocnemius (R=0.91, P<0.001), and TA muscles (R=0.58, P<0.05). US muscle thickness in the gastrocnemius and TA of patients with incomplete SCI may be used as a cheaper alternative measure of CSA as measured using MRI, and this measure may be clinically useful to track progress in muscle gains during rehabilitation.
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Garbeloti EJR, Paiva RCA, Restini CBA, Durand MT, Miranda CES, Teixeira VE. Biochemical biomarkers are not dependent on physical exercise in patients with spinal cord injury. BBA CLINICAL 2016; 6:5-11. [PMID: 27331022 PMCID: PMC4900297 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbacli.2016.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2016] [Revised: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Giangregorio LM, Gibbs JC, Craven BC. Measuring muscle and bone in individuals with neurologic impairment; lessons learned about participant selection and pQCT scan acquisition and analysis. Osteoporos Int 2016; 27:2433-46. [PMID: 27026329 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-016-3572-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) can be used to examine bone strength outcomes and muscle size and fatty infiltration. Our research team and others have used it to examine bone loss after spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the high prevalence of restricted lower extremity range of motion, spasticity, edema, excessive muscle atrophy, or severe osteoporosis necessitates changes to standard protocols for screening, positioning during scan acquisition, and analysis methods. This manuscript outlines the challenges that we experienced using pQCT in individuals with SCI, and provides solutions, ones that may also be applicable when using pQCT in individuals with other chronic conditions or in older adults. Suggestions for participant screening, positioning individuals for scanning while in a wheelchair, scan site selection, need for attendant assistance, and considerations in the presence of secondary complications, such as contracture, spasticity, and paralysis, are presented. In the presence of very low bone mineral density or severe muscle atrophy, the default analysis modes provided by the manufacturer may not provide valid estimates of bone or muscle indices; we propose alternates. We have used watershed segmentation methods to determine muscle size and density based on lower precision error compared to threshold-based edge-detection segmentation, particularly for adults with SCI, where more fatty infiltration was present. By presenting our "lessons learned," we hope to reduce the learning curve for researchers using pQCT in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Giangregorio
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue W-BMH 1109, Waterloo, ON, Canada.
- Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Research Scientist, Schlegel-UW Research Institute of Aging, Waterloo, ON, Canada.
| | - J C Gibbs
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue W-BMH 1109, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - B C Craven
- Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Thakore NP, Samantaray S, Park S, Nozaki K, Smith JA, Cox A, Krause J, Banik NL. Molecular Changes in Sub-lesional Muscle Following Acute Phase of Spinal Cord Injury. Neurochem Res 2016; 41:44-52. [PMID: 26290268 PMCID: PMC9727651 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-015-1696-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Revised: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
To clarify the molecular changes of sublesional muscle in the acute phase of spinal cord injury (SCI), a moderately severe injury (40 g cm) was induced in the spinal cord (T10 vertebral level) of adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (injury) and compared with sham (laminectomy only). Rats were sacrificed at 48 h (acute) post injury, and gastrocnemius muscles were excised. Morphological examination revealed no significant changes in the muscle fiber diameter between the sham and injury rats. Western blot analyses performed on the visibly red, central portion of the gastrocnemius muscle showed significantly higher expression of muscle specific E3 ubiquitin ligases (muscle ring finger-1 and muscle atrophy f-box) and significantly lower expression of phosphorylated Akt-1/2/3 in the injury group compared to the sham group. Cyclooxygenase 2, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and caspase-1, also had a significantly higher expression in the injury group; although, the mRNA levels of TNF-α and IL-6 did not show any significant difference between the sham and injury groups. These results suggest activation of protein degradation, deactivation of protein synthesis, and development of inflammatory reaction occurring in the sublesional muscles in the acute phase of SCI before overt muscle atrophy is seen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nakul P Thakore
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, 309 CSB, MSC 606, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Supriti Samantaray
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, 309 CSB, MSC 606, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Sookyoung Park
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, 309 CSB, MSC 606, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
- Departmentof Physical Therapy, Kyungnam University, Changwon, South Korea
| | - Kenkichi Nozaki
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, 309 CSB, MSC 606, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
- Division of Neuromuscular Disease, Department of Neurology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Joshua A Smith
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, 309 CSB, MSC 606, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - April Cox
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, 309 CSB, MSC 606, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - James Krause
- Department of Health Sciences and Research, College of Health Professions, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Naren L Banik
- Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, 309 CSB, MSC 606, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA.
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA.
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Gibbs JC, Craven BC, Moore C, Thabane L, Adachi JD, Giangregorio LM. Muscle Density and Bone Quality of the Distal Lower Extremity Among Individuals with Chronic Spinal Cord Injury. Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil 2015; 21:282-93. [PMID: 26689693 DOI: 10.1310/sci2104-282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the related fates of muscle density and bone quality after chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) is an important initial step in determining endocrine-metabolic risk. OBJECTIVE To examine the associations between muscle density and indices of bone quality at the distal lower extremity of adults with chronic SCI. METHODS A secondary data analysis was conducted in 70 adults with chronic SCI (C2-T12; American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale [AIS] A-D; ≥2 years post injury). Muscle density and cross-sectional area (CSA) and bone quality indices (trabecular bone mineral density [TbBMD] at the distal tibia [4% site] and cortical thickness [CtTh], cortical area [CtAr], cortical BMD [CtBMD], and polar moment of inertia [PMI] at the tibial shaft [66% site]) were measured using peripheral quantitative computed tomography. Calf lower extremity motor score (cLEMS) was used as a clinical measure of muscle function. Multivariable linear regression analyses were performed to determine the strength of the muscle-bone associations after adjusting for confounding variables (sex, impairment severity [AIS A/B vs AIS C/D], duration of injury, and wheelchair use). RESULTS Muscle density was positively associated with TbBMD (b = 0.85 [0.04, 1.66]), CtTh (b = 0.02 [0.001, 0.034]), and CtBMD (b = 1.70 [0.71, 2.69]) (P < .05). Muscle CSA was most strongly associated with CtAr (b = 2.50 [0.12, 4.88]) and PMI (b = 731.8 [161.7, 1301.9]) (P < .05), whereas cLEMS was most strongly associated with TbBMD (b = 7.69 [4.63, 10.76]) (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS Muscle density and function were most strongly associated with TbBMD at the distal tibia in adults with chronic SCI, whereas muscle size was most strongly associated with bone size and geometry at the tibial shaft.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna C Gibbs
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - B Catharine Craven
- Lyndhurst Centre, University Health Network-Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cameron Moore
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.,Lyndhurst Centre, University Health Network-Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lehana Thabane
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan D Adachi
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lora M Giangregorio
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.,Lyndhurst Centre, University Health Network-Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Schlegel Research Institute for Aging, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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Prak RF, Doestzada M, Thomas CK, Tepper M, Zijdewind I. Reduced voluntary drive during sustained but not during brief maximal voluntary contractions in the first dorsal interosseous weakened by spinal cord injury. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2015; 119:1320-9. [PMID: 26404618 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00399.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In able-bodied (AB) individuals, voluntary muscle activation progressively declines during sustained contractions. However, few data are available on voluntary muscle activation during sustained contractions in muscles weakened by spinal cord injury (SCI), where greater force declines may limit task performance. SCI-related impairment of muscle activation complicates interpretation of the interpolated twitch technique commonly used to assess muscle activation. We attempted to estimate and correct for the SCI-related-superimposed twitch. Seventeen participants, both AB and with SCI (American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale C/D) produced brief and sustained (2-min) maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs) with the first dorsal interosseous. Force and electromyography were recorded together with superimposed (doublet) twitches. MVCs of participants with SCI were weaker than those of AB participants (20.3 N, SD 7.1 vs. 37.9 N, SD 9.5; P < 0.001); MVC-superimposed twitches were larger in participants with SCI (SCI median 10.1%, range 2.0-63.2%; AB median 4.7%, range 0.0-18.4% rest twitch; P = 0.007). No difference was found after correction for the SCI-related-superimposed twitch (median 6.7%, 0.0-17.5% rest twitch, P = 0.402). Thus during brief contractions, the maximal corticofugal output that participants with SCI could exert was similar to that of AB participants. During the sustained contraction, force decline (SCI, 58.0%, SD 15.1; AB, 57.2% SD 13.3) was similar (P = 0.887) because participants with SCI developed less peripheral (P = 0.048) but more central fatigue than AB participants. The largest change occurred at the start of the sustained contraction when the (corrected) superimposed twitches increased more in participants with SCI (SCI, 16.3% rest twitch, SD 20.8; AB, 2.7%, SD 4.7; P = 0.01). The greater reduction in muscle activation after SCI may relate to a reduced capacity to overcome fast fatigue-related excitability changes at the spinal level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roeland F Prak
- Department of Neuroscience, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marwah Doestzada
- Department of Neuroscience, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Christine K Thomas
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Departments of Neurological Surgery, Physiology and Biophysics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida; and
| | - Marga Tepper
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Inge Zijdewind
- Department of Neuroscience, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands;
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Transcriptional Pathways Associated with Skeletal Muscle Changes after Spinal Cord Injury and Treadmill Locomotor Training. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:387090. [PMID: 26380273 PMCID: PMC4561307 DOI: 10.1155/2015/387090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The genetic and molecular events associated with changes in muscle mass and
function after SCI and after the implementation of candidate therapeutic
approaches are still not completely known. The overall objective of this study was
to identify key molecular pathways activated with muscle remodeling after SCI
and locomotor training. We implemented treadmill training in a well-characterized
rat model of moderate SCI and performed genome wide expression profiling on
soleus muscles at multiple time points: 3, 8, and 14 days after SCI. We found that the
activity of the protein ubiquitination and mitochondrial function related pathways
was altered with SCI and corrected with treadmill training. The BMP pathway was
differentially activated with early treadmill training as shown by Ingenuity
Pathway Analysis. The expression of several muscle mass regulators was
modulated by treadmill training, including Fst, Jun, Bmpr2, Actr2b, and Smad3. In
addition, key players in fatty acids metabolism (Lpl and Fabp3) responded to
both SCI induced inactivity and reloading with training. The decrease in Smad3 and Fst early after the initiation of treadmill training was confirmed by RT-PCR. Our data suggest that TGFβ/Smad3 signaling may be mainly involved in the decrease in muscle mass observed with SCI, while the BMP pathway was activated with treadmill training.
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Magnetic Resonance Assessment of Hypertrophic and Pseudo-Hypertrophic Changes in Lower Leg Muscles of Boys with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Their Relationship to Functional Measurements. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128915. [PMID: 26103164 PMCID: PMC4477876 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The primary objectives of this study were to evaluate contractile and non-contractile content of lower leg muscles of boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and determine the relationships between non-contractile content and functional abilities. Methods Lower leg muscles of thirty-two boys with DMD and sixteen age matched unaffected controls were imaged. Non-contractile content, contractile cross sectional area and non-contractile cross sectional area of lower leg muscles (tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum longus, peroneal, medial gastrocnemius and soleus) were assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Muscle strength, timed functional tests and the Brooke lower extremity score were also assessed. Results Non-contractile content of lower leg muscles (peroneal, medial gastrocnemius, and soleus) was significantly greater than control group (p<0.05). Non-contractile content of lower leg muscles correlated with Brooke score (rs = 0.64-0.84) and 30 feet walk (rs = 0.66-0.80). Dorsiflexor (DF) and plantarflexor (PF) specific torque was significantly different between the groups. Discussion Overall, non-contractile content of the lower leg muscles was greater in DMD than controls. Furthermore, there was an age dependent increase in contractile content in the medial gastrocnemius of boys with DMD. The findings of this study suggest that T1 weighted MR images can be used to monitor disease progression and provide a quantitative estimate of contractile and non-contractile content of tissue in children with DMD.
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do Espírito Santo CC, Swarowsky A, Recchia TL, Lopes APF, Ilha J. Is body weight-support treadmill training effective in increasing muscle trophism after traumatic spinal cord injury? A systematic review. Spinal Cord 2014; 53:176-181. [PMID: 25403505 DOI: 10.1038/sc.2014.198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Revised: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 10/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Systematic review. OBJECTIVE To determine the effectiveness of body weight-support treadmill training (BWSTT) for muscle atrophy management in people with spinal cord injury (SCI). SETTING Studies from multiple countries were included. METHODS The following databases were consulted from January to October 2013: PubMed, Institute for Scientific Information (ISI), Science Direct and Lilacs. The methodological quality of the articles included was classified according to Jovell and Navarro-Rubio. RESULTS A total of five studies were included. These studies reported a significant association between BWSTT and increased trophism of the lower limb muscles of humans with SCI, which was observed as an increase in the cross-sectional area. Moreover, improvements in the ability to generate peak torque, contract the knee extensors and ankle plantarflexors with reduction of body weight support were observed after BWSTT. CONCLUSION The results were considered inconclusive because of the low methodological quality of the articles, which was because of the absence of sample homogeneity, thereby providing a low level of evidence for clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- C C do Espírito Santo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Fisioterapia, Centro do Ciências da Saúde e do Esporte, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Florianópolis, Brazil.,Departamento de Fisioterapia, Laboratório de Pesquisa Experimental (LAPEx), Centro de Ciência da Saúde e do Esporte, UDESC, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - A Swarowsky
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Fisioterapia, Centro do Ciências da Saúde e do Esporte, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Florianópolis, Brazil.,Departamento de Fisioterapia, Laboratório de Pesquisa Experimental (LAPEx), Centro de Ciência da Saúde e do Esporte, UDESC, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - T L Recchia
- Departamento de Fisioterapia, Laboratório de Pesquisa Experimental (LAPEx), Centro de Ciência da Saúde e do Esporte, UDESC, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - A P F Lopes
- Departamento de Fisioterapia, Laboratório de Pesquisa Experimental (LAPEx), Centro de Ciência da Saúde e do Esporte, UDESC, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - J Ilha
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Fisioterapia, Centro do Ciências da Saúde e do Esporte, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Florianópolis, Brazil.,Departamento de Fisioterapia, Laboratório de Pesquisa Experimental (LAPEx), Centro de Ciência da Saúde e do Esporte, UDESC, Florianópolis, Brazil
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Gorgey AS, Dolbow DR, Dolbow JD, Khalil RK, Castillo C, Gater DR. Effects of spinal cord injury on body composition and metabolic profile - part I. J Spinal Cord Med 2014; 37:693-702. [PMID: 25001559 PMCID: PMC4231957 DOI: 10.1179/2045772314y.0000000245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 195] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Several body composition and metabolic-associated disorders such as glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, and lipid abnormalities occur prematurely after spinal cord injury (SCI) and at a higher prevalence compared to able-bodied populations. Within a few weeks to months of the injury, there is a significant decrease in total lean mass, particularly lower extremity muscle mass and an accompanying increase in fat mass. The infiltration of fat in intramuscular and visceral sites is associated with abnormal metabolic profiles. The current review will summarize the major changes in body composition and metabolic profiles that can lead to comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases after SCI. It is crucial for healthcare specialists to be aware of the magnitude of these changes. Such awareness may lead to earlier recognition and treatment of metabolic abnormalities that may reduce the co-morbidities seen over the lifetime of persons living with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf S. Gorgey
- Correspondence to: Ashraf S. Gorgey, Department of Veterans Affairs, Hunter Holmes McGuire Medical Center, Spinal Cord Injury & Disorders Service, 1201 Broad Rock Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23249, USA.
| | - David R. Dolbow
- School of Human Performance and Recreation, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS, USA
| | - James D. Dolbow
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Center, Hunter Holmes McGuire VAMC, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Refka K. Khalil
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Center, Hunter Holmes McGuire VAMC, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Camilo Castillo
- MedStar National Rehabilitation Network, Washington, DC, USA
| | - David R. Gater
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State University, Hershey, PA, USA
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Kressler J, Thomas CK, Field-Fote EC, Sanchez J, Widerström-Noga E, Cilien DC, Gant K, Ginnety K, Gonzalez H, Martinez A, Anderson KD, Nash MS. Understanding therapeutic benefits of overground bionic ambulation: exploratory case series in persons with chronic, complete spinal cord injury. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2014; 95:1878-1887.e4. [PMID: 24845221 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2014.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2013] [Revised: 03/21/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore responses to overground bionic ambulation (OBA) training from an interdisciplinary perspective including key components of neuromuscular activation, exercise conditioning, mobility capacity, and neuropathic pain. DESIGN Case series. SETTING Academic research center. PARTICIPANTS Persons (N=3; 2 men, 1 woman) aged 26 to 38 years with complete spinal cord injury (SCI) (American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale grade A) between the levels of T1 and T10 for ≥1 year. INTERVENTION OBA 3d/wk for 6 weeks. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES To obtain a comprehensive understanding of responses to OBA, an array of measures were obtained while walking in the device, including walking speeds and distances, energy expenditure, exercise conditioning effects, and neuromuscular and cortical activity patterns. Changes in spasticity and pain severity related to OBA use were also assessed. RESULTS With training, participants were able to achieve walking speeds and distances in the OBA device similar to those observed in persons with motor-incomplete SCI (10-m walk speed, .11-.33m/s; 2-min walk distance, 11-33m). The energy expenditure required for OBA was similar to walking in persons without disability (ie, 25%-41% of peak oxygen consumption). Subjects with lower soleus reflex excitability walked longer during training, but there was no change in the level or amount of muscle activity with training. There was no change in cortical activity patterns. Exercise conditioning effects were small or nonexistent. However, all participants reported an average reduction in pain severity over the study period ranging between -1.3 and 1.7 on a 0-to-6 numeric rating scale. CONCLUSIONS OBA training improved mobility in the OBA device without significant changes in exercise conditioning or in neuromuscular or cortical activity. However, pain severity was reduced and no severe adverse events were encountered during training. OBA therefore opens the possibility to reduce the common consequences of chronic, complete SCI such as reduced functional mobility and neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jochen Kressler
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL.
| | - Christine K Thomas
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL; Department of Neurological Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Edelle C Field-Fote
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL; Department of Neurological Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL; Department of Physical Therapy, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Justin Sanchez
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Eva Widerström-Noga
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL; Department of Neurological Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Deena C Cilien
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Katie Gant
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Kelly Ginnety
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Hernan Gonzalez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Adriana Martinez
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Kimberley D Anderson
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Mark S Nash
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL; Department of Neurological Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL; Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL
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Varoqui D, Niu X, Mirbagheri MM. Ankle voluntary movement enhancement following robotic-assisted locomotor training in spinal cord injury. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2014; 11:46. [PMID: 24684813 PMCID: PMC3974744 DOI: 10.1186/1743-0003-11-46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI), sensorimotor impairments result in severe limitations to ambulation. To improve walking capacity, physical therapies using robotic-assisted locomotor devices, such as the Lokomat, have been developed. Following locomotor training, an improvement in gait capabilities-characterized by increases in the over-ground walking speed and endurance-is generally observed in patients. To better understand the mechanisms underlying these improvements, we studied the effects of Lokomat training on impaired ankle voluntary movement, known to be an important limiting factor in gait for iSCI patients. METHODS Fifteen chronic iSCI subjects performed twelve 1-hour sessions of Lokomat training over the course of a month. The voluntary movement was qualified by measuring active range of motion, maximal velocity peak and trajectory smoothness for the spastic ankle during a movement from full plantar-flexion (PF) to full dorsi-flexion (DF) at the patient's maximum speed. Dorsi- and plantar-flexor muscle strength was quantified by isometric maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). Clinical assessments were also performed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG), the 10-meter walk (10MWT) and the 6-minute walk (6MWT) tests. All evaluations were performed both before and after the training and were compared to a control group of fifteen iSCI patients. RESULTS After the Lokomat training, the active range of motion, the maximal velocity, and the movement smoothness were significantly improved in the voluntary movement. Patients also exhibited an improvement in the MVC for their ankle dorsi- and plantar-flexor muscles. In terms of functional activity, we observed an enhancement in the mobility (TUG) and the over-ground gait velocity (10MWT) with training. Correlation tests indicated a significant relationship between ankle voluntary movement performance and the walking clinical assessments. CONCLUSIONS The improvements of the kinematic and kinetic parameters of the ankle voluntary movement, and their correlation with the functional assessments, support the therapeutic effect of robotic-assisted locomotor training on motor impairment in chronic iSCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Varoqui
- Sensory Motor Performance Program, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA
| | - Xun Niu
- Sensory Motor Performance Program, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA
| | - Mehdi M Mirbagheri
- Sensory Motor Performance Program, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA
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Labruyère R, Zimmerli M, van Hedel HJ. Slowed Down: Response Time Deficits in Well-Recovered Subjects With Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2013; 94:2020-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2013.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2012] [Revised: 03/28/2013] [Accepted: 04/04/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Stevens SL, Fuller DK, Morgan DW. Leg strength, preferred walking speed, and daily step activity in adults with incomplete spinal cord injuries. Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil 2013; 19:47-53. [PMID: 23678285 DOI: 10.1310/sci1901-47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The reduction in physical activity that accompanies spinal cord injury (SCI) contributes to the development of secondary health concerns. Research has explored potential strategies to enhance the recovery of walking and lessen the impact of physical disability following SCI, but further work is needed to identify determinants of community walking activity in this population. OBJECTIVES To quantify relationships among lower extremity strength (LES), preferred walking speed (PWS), and daily step activity (DSA) in adults with incomplete SCI (iSCI) and determine the extent to which LES and PWS predict DSA in persons with iSCI. METHODS Participants were 21 adults (age range, 21 to 62 years; AIS levels C and D) with iSCI. Maximal values of hip abduction, flexion, and extension, knee flexion and extension, and ankle dorsiflexion and plantar flexion were measured using handheld dynamometry and were summed to determine LES. PWS was calculated using a photoelectric cell-based timing system, and participants were fitted with activity monitors to measure DSA in a natural setting. RESULTS Statistically significant (P <; .05) correlations of moderate to high magnitude (.74 to .87) were observed among LES, PWS, and DSA. Multiple regression analysis revealed that LES and PWS accounted for 83% (adjusted R2) of the variation in DSA (P <; .001). CONCLUSION A significant proportion of the explained variance in DSA can be predicted from knowledge of LES and PWS in adults with iSCI. These findings suggest that future efforts to improve community walking behavior following SCI should be directed toward increasing LES and PWS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra L Stevens
- Department of Health and Human Performance, Middle Tennessee State University , Murfreesboro, Tennessee
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Giangregorio L, Craven C, Richards K, Kapadia N, Hitzig SL, Masani K, Popovic MR. A randomized trial of functional electrical stimulation for walking in incomplete spinal cord injury: effects on body composition. J Spinal Cord Med 2012; 35:351-60. [PMID: 23031172 PMCID: PMC3459564 DOI: 10.1179/2045772312y.0000000041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of functional electrical stimulation (FES)-assisted walking on body composition, compared to a non-FES exercise program in individuals with a spinal cord injury (SCI). DESIGN Parallel-group randomized controlled trial. METHODS Individuals with chronic (≥ 18 months) incomplete SCI (level C2 to T12, AIS C or D) were recruited and randomized to FES-assisted walking (intervention), or aerobic and resistance training (control) sessions thrice-weekly for 16 weeks. Whole body and leg lean mass and whole body fat mass, measured with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and lower-limb muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and fat CSA, measured with peripheral computed tomography were assessed at baseline, 4 months, and 12 months. Intention-to-treat analyses using repeated measures general linear models were used to assess between-group differences. RESULTS Thirty-four individuals were randomized (17 per group); 27 remained at 12 months. There were no significant main effects of FES-assisted walking on body composition variables in intention-to-treat analyses with group means. There was a significant group-by-time interaction for muscle area from baseline to 12 months (P = 0.04). Intention-to-treat analysis of muscle area change scores between baseline and 12 months revealed a significant difference between groups (mean (SD) muscle area change score 212 (517) mm(s) for FES, -136 (268) mm(s) for control, P = 0.026). There were 13 side effects or adverse events deemed related to study participation (7 intervention, 5 control); most were resolved with modifications to the protocol. One fainting episode resulted in a hospital visit and study withdrawal. CONCLUSIONS Thrice-weekly FES-assisted walking exercise over 4 months did not result in a change in body composition in individuals with chronic, motor incomplete C2 to T12 SCI (AIS classification C and D). However, longer-term follow-up revealed that it might maintain muscle area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lora Giangregorio
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Catharine Craven
- Department of Medicine Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
| | - Kieva Richards
- Department of Medicine Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
| | - Naaz Kapadia
- Department of Medicine Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
| | - Sander L. Hitzig
- Department of Medicine Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario; and Health Outcomes and PharmacoEconomics (HOPE) Research Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kei Masani
- Department of Medicine Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
| | - Milos R. Popovic
- Department of Medicine Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario; and Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Thompson CK, Lewek MD, Jayaraman A, Hornby TG. Central excitability contributes to supramaximal volitional contractions in human incomplete spinal cord injury. J Physiol 2011; 589:3739-52. [PMID: 21610138 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2011.212233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite greater muscle fatigue in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) when compared to neurologically intact subjects using neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES)protocols, few studies have investigated the extent of volitional fatigue in motor incomplete SCI. Using an established protocol of 20 repeated, intermittent, maximal volitional effort (MVE) contractions, we previously demonstrated that subjects with incomplete SCI unexpectedly demonstrated a 15% increase in peak knee extensor torques within the first five MVEs with minimal evidence of fatigue after 20 contraction. In the present study, we investigated potential segmental mechanisms underlying this supramaximal torque generation. Changes in twitch properties and maximum compound muscle action potentials (M-waves) were assessed prior to and following one, three and five MVEs, revealing a significant 17% increase only in maximum twitch torques after a single MVE. Despite this post-activation potentiation of the muscle, use of conventional NMES protocols to elicit repeated muscular contractions resulted in a significant decrease in evoked torque generation, suggesting limited the muscular contributions to the observed phenomenon. To evaluate potential central mechanisms underlying the augmented torques, non-linear responses to wide-pulse width (1 ms), low-intensity, variable-frequency (25–100 Hz) NMES were also tested prior to and following repeated MVEs.When variable-frequency NMES was applied following the repeated MVEs, augmented and prolonged torques were observed and accompanied by sustained quadriceps electromyographic activity often lasting > 2s after stimulus termination. Such data suggest a potential contribution of elevated spinal excitability to the reserve in volitional force generation in incomplete SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher K Thompson
- Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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Dudley-Javoroski S, McMullen T, Borgwardt MR, Peranich LM, Shields RK. Reliability and responsiveness of musculoskeletal ultrasound in subjects with and without spinal cord injury. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2010; 36:1594-1607. [PMID: 20800961 PMCID: PMC2948870 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2010.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2010] [Revised: 07/22/2010] [Accepted: 07/26/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Rehabilitation after spinal cord injury (SCI) aims to preserve the integrity of the paralyzed musculoskeletal system. The suitability of ultrasound (US) for delineating training-related muscle/tendon adaptations after SCI is unknown. The purpose of this study was to quantify within- and between-operator reliability for US and to determine its responsiveness to post-training muscle/tendon adaptations in SCI subjects. Two novice operators and one experienced operator obtained sonographic images of the vastus lateralis, patellar tendon, soleus, and Achilles tendon from seven SCI subjects and 16 controls. For control subjects, within-operator concordance (ICC [3,1]) ranged from 0.58 to 0.95 for novice operators and exceeded 0.86 for the experienced operator. Between-operator concordance (ICC [2,1]) ranged from 0.62 to 0.74. Ultrasound detected muscle hypertrophy (p < 0.05) following electrical stimulation training in subjects with SCI (responsiveness) but did not detect differences in tendon thickness. These error estimates support the utility of US in future post-SCI training studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shauna Dudley-Javoroski
- Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City Iowa
| | - Tara McMullen
- Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City Iowa
| | | | - Lauren M. Peranich
- Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City Iowa
| | - Richard K. Shields
- Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City Iowa
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Ahmed Z. Dipolar cortico-muscular electrical stimulation: a novel method that enhances motor function in both - normal and spinal cord injured mice. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2010; 7:46. [PMID: 20849604 PMCID: PMC2949708 DOI: 10.1186/1743-0003-7-46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2010] [Accepted: 09/17/2010] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Electrical stimulation of the central and peripheral nervous systems is a common tool that is used to improve functional recovery after neuronal injury. Methods Here we described a new configuration of electrical stimulation as it was tested in anesthetized control and spinal cord injury (SCI) mice. Constant voltage output was delivered through two electrodes. While the negative voltage output (ranging from -1.8 to -2.6 V) was delivered to the muscle via transverse wire electrodes (diameter, 500 μm) located at opposite ends of the muscle, the positive output (ranging from + 2.4 to +3.2 V) was delivered to the primary motor cortex (M1) (electrode tip, 100 μm). The configuration was named dipolar cortico-muscular stimulation (dCMS) and consisted of 100 pulses (1 ms pulse duration, 1 Hz frequency). Results In SCI animals, after dCMS, cortically-elicited muscle contraction improved markedly at the contralateral (456%) and ipsilateral (457%) gastrocnemius muscles. The improvement persisted for the duration of the experiment (60 min). The enhancement of cortically-elicited muscle contraction was accompanied by the reduction of M1 maximal threshold and the potentiation of spinal motoneuronal evoked responses at the contralateral (313%) and ipsilateral (292%) sides of the spinal cord. Moreover, spontaneous activity recorded from single spinal motoneurons was substantially increased contralaterally (121%) and ipsilaterally (54%). Interestingly, spinal motoneuronal responses and muscle twitches evoked by the test stimulation of non-treated M1 (received no dCMS) were significantly enhanced as well. Similar results obtained from normal animals albeit the changes were relatively smaller. Conclusion These findings demonstrated that dCMS could improve functionality of corticomotoneuronal pathway and thus it may have therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaghloul Ahmed
- Department of Physical Therapy and Neuroscience Program, The College of Staten Island/CUNY, Staten Island, NY 10314, USA.
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Mathur S, Lott DJ, Senesac C, Germain SA, Vohra RS, Sweeney HL, Walter GA, Vandenborne K. Age-related differences in lower-limb muscle cross-sectional area and torque production in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2010; 91:1051-8. [PMID: 20599043 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2010.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2009] [Revised: 03/19/2010] [Accepted: 03/21/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship between lower-extremity muscle cross-sectional area, muscle strength, specific torque, and age in ambulatory boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) compared with controls. DESIGN Observational cross-sectional study. SETTING University research setting. PARTICIPANTS Volunteer sample of boys with DMD (n=22) and healthy control boys (n=10), ages 5 through 14 years. INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Maximal muscle cross-sectional area (CSA(max)) assessed by magnetic resonance imaging of quadriceps, plantarflexors (PFs) and dorsiflexors (DFs), peak isometric torque from dynamometry, and timed functional tests. RESULTS The average CSA(max) of the triceps surae muscle group was approximately 60% higher in boys with DMD compared with controls (39.1+/-13.6 cm(2) vs 24.5+/-9.3 cm(2); P=.002), while the tibialis anterior muscle showed age-appropriate increases in CSA(max). The increase in quadriceps CSA(max) was also distinctly different in boys with DMD compared with controls. Specific torque (ie, peak torque/CSA(max)) was impaired in all 3 muscles groups, with the knee extensor (KE) and PF muscles showing 4-fold, and the DF muscles 2-fold, higher values in controls compared with boys with DMD. Large age-related gains in specific torque were observed in all 3 muscle groups of control subjects, which were absent in ambulatory boys with DMD. Correlations were observed between performance on functional tasks and quadriceps and PF torque production (r=-.45 to -.57, P<.05), but not with DF strength. CONCLUSIONS Age-related changes in muscle cross-sectional area and specific torque production in lower-extremity muscles showed distinctly different patterns in the KE, PF, and DF muscles of boys with DMD compared with controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunita Mathur
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610-0154, USA
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