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Differences in plantarflexor function during a stretch-shortening cycle task due to limb preference.

Laura-Anne M Furlong1, Andrew J Harrison

  • 1a Biomechanics Research Unit, Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences , University of Limerick , Limerick , Ireland.

Laterality
|June 1, 2014
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Healthy adults exhibit significant muscle function asymmetries in their limbs during stretch-shortening cycle tasks. These findings suggest compensatory movements occur proximally to maintain overall symmetrical locomotion.

Keywords:
AsymmetryDynamical systemsInjuryLimb dominanceRunning

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Area of Science:

  • Biomechanics
  • Human Movement Science
  • Exercise Physiology

Background:

  • Locomotion in healthy individuals typically appears symmetrical at the limb level.
  • However, significant kinetic and kinematic asymmetries are present at the joint level during movement.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To quantify muscle function asymmetries in the plantarflexors of healthy, active adults.
  • To investigate asymmetries during a stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) task using an adapted force sledge.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized an adapted force sledge apparatus to isolate plantarflexor muscles.
  • Assessed peak force, rate of force development, and SSC function in preferred and non-preferred limbs.
  • Employed three-dimensional motion analysis and statistical methods (paired t-tests, Cohen's dz, symmetry index) to determine between-limb differences.

Main Results:

  • Significant moderate effect size differences were found in peak force, rate of force development (overall and at 50ms), flight time, and SSC function.
  • No significant differences were observed in contact time or duration of eccentric loading.
  • Asymmetries up to 44.6% were observed, exceeding previously reported ranges for healthy individuals.

Conclusions:

  • Healthy, active adults display notable asymmetries in plantarflexor muscle function during SSC tasks.
  • These findings indicate that proximal joint compensations likely occur to ensure symmetrical gross limb movement during locomotion.