Exercise Testing Using Upper Extremity Ergometry in Pediatric Spinal Cord Injury.

Johnston, Therese E.; Smith, Brian T.; Betz, Randal R.; Lauer, Richard T.

This research report aims to describe an upper extremity ergometer test for children with spinal cord injury (SCI) and examines differences based on injury level for peak heart rate (HRpeak), oxygen uptake (VO2peak/kg), and peak power output per kilogram (Wpeak/kg).

It concludes that the differences in HRpeak, VO2peak/kg, and Wpeak/kg are reflecting exercise effects reported in adults with same condition, but new standards will have to be developed for children.

Pediatric Physical Therapy. 20(2):146-151, Summer 2008.

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