Evaluation of Power Production Asymmetry during Cycling in Persons with Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Lower limb asymmetries have been observed in persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS), and have been associated with mobility impairment. An incremental cycling test was performed on a cycle ergometer to determine peak power output (PPO) and peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak). Then, participants cycled at 50%, 60%, and 70% of their PPO to assess the contribution of each lower limb to power production. Two-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to detect group × intensity differences in power production asymmetry. Eight PwMS and six healthy individuals (Non-MS) completed the study. No statistically significant (p > 0.05) group × intensity interactions or main effects were present when examining between-limb differences in power production. The current data do not indicate a statistically significant difference in power production asymmetry between groups and exercise intensities. Previous research has established a 10% difference between contralateral limbs as a threshold for asymmetry. The average asymmetry in power production in PwMS exceeded the 10% threshold at all measured outputs, suggesting the presence of asymmetry in power production.