Article

AIM: To determine the neuromuscular outcomes of an eccentric strength-training
programme for children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP). METHOD: In this
randomised, parallel-group trial with waiting control, 14 participants with CP
(six males, eight females; mean age 11y, SD 2y range 9-15y), diagnosed with
upper-limb spasticity were compared with 14 age- and sex-matched typically
developing participants. Participants with CP completed a 6-week progressive
resistance-strengthening programme, performing eccentric lengthening contractions
of their upper limb three times a week. Data from dynamometer and surface
electromyography (EMG) assessments included peak torque normalised to body mass
(T/Bm), work normalised to body mass (W/Bm), angle at peak torque, curve width,
and EMG activation. RESULTS: After training, children with CP had improved
eccentric T/Bm (p=0.009) and W/Bm (p=0.009) to a level similar to that of the
typically developing children. No change in angle of peak torque occurred,
although curve width increased both concentrically (p=0.018) and eccentrically
(p=0.015). EMG activity was elevated before training in children with CP but
decreased with training to levels similar to those of the typically developing
children. INTERPRETATION: With eccentric strength training, children with CP
increased torque throughout range of motion. Results suggest that eccentric
exercises may decrease co-contraction, improving net torque development.
Eccentric actions may be important in the maintenance of the torque-angle
relationship. These results have significant implications for the prescription of
strength-training programmes for people with CP.

Langue : ANGLAIS