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Body weight-supported training in Becker and limb girdle 2I muscular dystrophy
Bente R Jensen1, Martin P Berthelsen1, Edith Husu2
1Biomechanics and Motor Control Laboratory, Integrative Physiology, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sport, University of Copenhagen, Nørre Allé 51, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Introduction:
We studied the functional effects of combined strength and aerobic anti-gravity training in severely affected patients with Becker and Limb-Girdle muscular dystrophies.
Methods:
Eight patients performed 10-week progressive combined strength (squats, calf raises, lunges) and aerobic (walk/run, jogging in place or high knee-lift) training 3 times/week in a lower-body positive pressure environment. Closed-kinetic-chain leg muscle strength, isometric knee strength, rate of force development (RFD), and reaction time were evaluated.
Results:
Baseline data indicated an intact neural activation pattern but showed compromised muscle contractile properties. Training (compliance 91%) improved functional leg muscle strength. Squat series performance increased 30%, calf raises 45%, and lunges 23%.
Conclusions:
Anti-gravity training improved closed-kinetic-chain leg muscle strength despite no changes in isometric knee extension strength and absolute RFD. The improved closed-kinetic-chain performance may relate to neural adaptation involving motor learning and/or improved muscle strength of other muscles than the weak knee extensors. Muscle Nerve 54: 239-243, 2016.
