Multiparametric MRI Assessment of Morpho-Functional Muscle Changes Following a 6-Month FES-Cycling Training Program: Pilot Study in People With a Complete Spinal Cord Injury

• DOI: 10.2196/64825
• Publication Date: 2024-11-12T20:27:02Z
• Authors: Alfonso Mastropietro; Denis Peruzzo; Maria Giovanna Ta...; Nicole Sanna; Nicola Casali; Roberta Nossa; Emilia Biffi; Emilia Ambrosini; Alessandra Pedrocchi; Giovanna Rizzo
• Keywords: Cycling; Functional electrical stimulation; Back muscles; Preprint

Abstract Background Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) cause debilitating secondary conditions such as severe muscle deterioration, cardiovascular, and metabolic dysfunctions, significantly impacting patients’ quality of life. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) combined with cycling exercise (FES-cycling) has shown promise in improving function health individuals SCI. Objective This pilot study aimed to investigate the potential role multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assess during after an FES-cycling rehabilitation program. Methods Four male participants chronic SCI underwent a 6-month training program, consisting two 30-minute sessions per week. MRI scans were performed at baseline (T 0 ), 3 months 1 end 2 1-month posttraining ). The protocol included T -weighted for volume quantification, Dixon fat fraction, multi-echo spin echo relaxation times, diffusion tensor parameters. Results Muscle hypertrophy was observed, average increase 22.3% 36.7% compared baseline. One month posttraining, remained 23.2% higher than Fat fraction decreased from 11.1% 9.1% , rebound 10.9% . times showed reduction even though this not consistent among participants. Diffusion parameters revealed subtle changes tissue microstructure, decrease fractional anisotropy mainly associated radial diffusivity. Conclusions Although preliminary, provides evidence that 6 low-intensity FES-bike can infiltration demonstrates use comprehensive insights into both macroscopic microscopic within tissues, supporting its integration clinical practice assessing efficacy interventions.