Force control of isometric elbow flexion with visual feedback in cold with and without shivering.

Background: Exposure to cold impairs manual performance through effects on muscle tissue and control mechanisms. The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of increased muscle tone and shivering on ability to maintain required force during isometric flexion over a wide range of effort levels.

Methods: Lightly clad male subjects (n = 6) were exposed to thermoneutral air (TN, 27 degrees C) for 30 min, or to cold air (CA, 10 degrees C) for 30 min followed by a cold drink (1 L, 8 degrees C) to cause vigorous shivering (SH).