The Modulatory Effect of Female Sex Hormones on Spinal Neuroplasticity

FEMALES

Inclusion criteria

• Ages 18-39 years
• Eumenorrheic (regular monthly cycles of 24-35 days)
• Moderately active (less than 7 hours of vigorous physical activity per week)
• History of pregnancy is allowed if patient is in post-lactation phase

Exclusion criteria

• History of musculoskeletal or orthopedic injury of the spine, hip, knee, ankle or foot
• History of neurological injury of the peripheral or central nervous system
• Current smoker
• History of disordered eating
• History of stress fracture in the lower limb
• History of a connective tissue disorder (Marfan's syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos disease)
• Pacemaker, metal implants in the head and spine region
• Pregnancy
• On a hormonal contraceptive regimen (oral, transdermal or vaginal)
• History of menstrual dysfunction (primary or secondary amenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, anovulatory cycles, polycystic ovarian disease)
• Started or stopped taking oral contraceptives within the previous 6 months
• Exercise vigorously more than 7 hours per week or currently participating in competitive level sports.

MALES

Inclusion criteria

• Ages 18-39
• Moderately active (less than 7 hours of vigorous physical activity per week)

Exclusion criteria

• History of musculoskeletal or orthopedic injury of the spine, hip, knee, ankle or foot
• History of neurological injury of the peripheral or central nervous system
• Current smoker
• History of disordered eating
• History of stress fracture in the lower limb
• History of a connective tissue disorder (Marfan's syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos disease)
• Pacemaker, metal implants in the head and spine region