Muscle strengthening related to function

Recently, muscle strengthening related to function was presented to the therapists in the facilities where we provide rehabilitation services. I would like to share with you the highlights of this presentation.

Integrated Muscle Action:

• A single muscle action results in a chain reaction
• The agonist is the prime mover contracted in a concentric way
• The antagonist is the opposite to the prime mover, has to lengthen in eccentric way
• The fixator has to stabilize both of them in order to allow a smooth action

 

Interchange Muscle Action:

• Origin versus insertion of the muscle
• Mobile versus stabile action
• Dynamic versus static kinesthetic
• Concentric versus eccentric muscle movement
• Open versus closed kinetic chain exercises
• Weight bearing for upper and lower extremity

 

Movement training must be done in the actual activity:

• Good static balance in standing does not carry over into dynamic gait
• Good dynamic balance is necessary in order to walk safely and effectively
• Practice balance by standing and holding onto parallel bars, and walking on a variety of surfaces
• Transfer to sitting on different surfaces – hard and soft chair seats on low and high chairs

 

In the pictures:

* The group is practicing Quadriceps strengthening in mid-range in full weight bearing

* Practice with the patient: Rotation in standing

* Practice with the patient : Rotation in sitting