Neuromuscular features in sprinters with cerebral palsy: case studies based on paralympic classification

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Neuromuscular Physiology
• Disability Sport

Background:

• Understanding neuromuscular characteristics of sprinters with cerebral palsy (CP) across functional classes is limited.
• Key parameters like power output, muscle imbalance, and limb asymmetry require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate muscle power, muscular imbalance, and asymmetry in lower limbs of sprinters with CP.
• To compare these parameters across different CP functional classifications (T38, T37, T36, T35).

Main Methods:

• Four male sprinters with CP underwent vertical jump tests (counter movement and squat jumps) using a force plate.
• Isokinetic torque evaluations of knee extensors and flexors were performed at various speeds.
• Muscle power, peak torque, asymmetry indexes, and functional ratios were assessed.

Main Results:

• Athletes with more severe impairments (T35, T36) demonstrated reduced muscle power and increased limb asymmetry (>10%).
• The T37 athlete showed superior performance across all assessed neuromuscular variables.
• Greater asymmetries in knee extensor and flexor torque production were observed in athletes with higher impairment levels.

Conclusions:

• CP athletes with greater impairments exhibit diminished jumping performance and torque production, alongside significant limb asymmetries.
• The T37 athlete's performance suggests that prolonged athletic training can potentially reverse some CP-related neuromuscular impairments.