Poster 29: Crank Torque Profile of Leg Muscles at Different Stimulation Intensities and Crank Positions of Electrically Stimulated Cycling

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the contribution of 5 leg muscles to forward cycling and crank torque production at fixed crank positions during electrically stimulated leg cycle ergometry. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Setting: Research laboratory. Participants: 7 men with spinal cord injury. Intervention: Electric stimulation levels at 70, 105, and 140mA applied to the quadriceps, hamstrings, gluteals, tibilias anterior, and gastrocnemius muscle groups individually at 8 crank positions. Main Outcome Measures: Torque production (positive or negative) of individual leg muscles calculated at each stimulation intensity and crank position to determine their role to drive the crank.