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