title: Impaired Object Handling during Bimanual Task Performance in Multiple Sclerosis.
abstract: We investigated the kinetic features of manual dexterity and fine motor control during a task that resembles an activity of daily living in 30 persons with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Specifically, a novel two-transducer system was used to measure time and grip-load forces during a bimanual task that is similar to opening and closing a jar. We hypothesized that PwMS would have increased grip force production, deteriorations in kinetic timing, and preserved grip-load coupling indices compared to healthy controls (i.e., young and older adults). Increased grip force production and deterioration in timing indices were confirmed in PwMS. Abnormal grip-load coupling was exhibited by PwMS, in contrast to healthy participants. The correlation between task time and self-reported disability scores suggests that objective measurement of impaired upper-extremity movements relates to perception of overall function.
authors.affiliation: Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Houston, 3855 Holman Street, Garrison 104U, Houston, TX 77204, USA ; Centers for Neuromotor and Biomechanics Research and Neuro-Engineering and Cognitive Science, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA.
authors.forename: Stacey L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Gorniak
authors.affiliation: Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106-4904, USA.
authors.forename: Matthew
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Plow
authors.affiliation: Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106-4904, USA.
authors.forename: Corey
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: McDaniel
authors.affiliation: Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106-4904, USA ; Cleveland FES Center, Louis Stokes VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
authors.forename: Jay L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Alberts