Susanne Heinzer-Schweizer1, Flurin Item2,3, Anke Henning1, Marco Toigo2,3, Peter Boesiger1
1Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; 2Institute of Physiology and Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology (ZIHP), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; 3Exercise Physiology, Institute for Human Movement Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is frequently used to assess dynamic metabolic changes in skeletal muscle. To study metabolism during exercise in an MR scanner, ergometers have to be designed that are compatible with the constraints imposed by the scanner. We present an improved MRS ergometer setup for the measurement of muscular metabolism during isometric contractions of the plantarflexor muscles. Key features of the setup are a pedal with an integrated strain gauge, flexible adjustment of ankle joint angle, and real-time visual feedback for subjects on momentary contraction. Using this setup, we were able to determine metabolic parameters under standardized conditions.