Workload and position dependent force output and the force-corticospinal excitability relationship during arm cycling

Bilodeau, Reagan Leslie Simone (2021) Workload and position dependent force output and the force-corticospinal excitability relationship during arm cycling. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

The neural control of human locomotion is commonly investigated by measuring supraspinal and spinal (collectively: corticospinal) excitability during arm cycling. Arm cycling has proven to be an efficient addition to both exercise and rehabilitation regimes, specifically for persons experiencing paraplegia due to a spinal cord injury, or other neural impairments which affect mobility and limb function. Importantly, assessing corticospinal excitability to multiple muscles across phases of cycling and at various intensities has provided a broader understanding of how the central nervous system produces locomotor outputs. One aspect of arm cycling that has yet to be widely assessed is the mechanical component; namely force output. Muscular strength (a determinant of the ability to produce force) is necessary for many activities of daily living, as well as for athletic performance and overall musculoskeletal health. Examining both corticospinal excitability and force output across phases and intensities of arm cycling may improve knowledge translation related to training and rehabilitation that incorporate this exercise modality (i.e., promote a neuromechanical approach).

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