Motor Fatigue in Multiple Sclerosis: Role of Central Mechanisms
Abstract
The main objective of this proposal is to investigate the role of central mechanisms in motor fatigue and to unmask the alterations in the neural connectivity patterns underpinning central fatigue in PwMS. Specifically, we aim to 1)determine the role of central mechanisms in motor fatigue in PwMS, and 2) to determine the neural correlates of central fatigue in PwMS. Methods: Aim 1: Fatigue Assessment: PwMS and healthy controls are currently being recruited to participate in a fatiguing motor task involving a sustained contraction of plantar flexor (PF) muscles for 60 seconds. We are using the interpolated twitch technique to determine voluntary activation (VA) of the PF muscles. The decline in VA during motor task represents the inability of the central nervous system to maximally drive muscles for a sustained period and provides an index of central fatigue. We further relate this objective index of central fatigue to decline in the balance control during standing (pre- and post fatigue test) and the fast six-minute walk test. We hypothesize that 1a: PwMS will exhibit significantly higher central fatigue during the performance of the fatiguing motor task, and 1b: Central fatigue will be related to the decline in balance control during standing and walking performance.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1094475
Entities
People
- Austin Prewitt
- Fay B Horak
- Grace Mcbarron
- Ishu Arpan
Organizations
- Oregon Health & Science University