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Measuring Neuromuscular Junction Functionality
Published on: August 6, 2017
18.7K
Muscle stretching changes neuromuscular function involved in ankle stability
Alex Sandra Oliveira de Cerqueira1, Renato José Soares1, Renata de Azevedo Antunes Corrêa2
1Department of Physical Therapy, University of Taubaté (Unitau) , Taubaté, São Paulo, Brasil.
Physiotherapy Theory and Practice
|November 27, 2018
Summary
Static stretching negatively impacts dynamic joint stability by increasing muscle reaction time and reducing muscle activation. This study demonstrates how stretching affects neuromuscular responses crucial for ankle stabilization.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Static stretching is hypothesized to decrease muscle strength and power.
- Reduced neural input and muscle stiffness from stretching may impair joint stabilization.
- Empirical evidence supporting these effects on dynamic joint stability is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of static stretching on dynamic joint stability.
- To analyze the effects of stretching the peroneus longus and brevis muscles on ankle sprain response.
Main Methods:
- Twenty physically active female university students participated.
- Static-passive stretching protocols were applied to the peroneus longus and brevis muscles.
- Electromyography measured muscle response (latency and RMS) during simulated ankle sprains before and after stretching.
Main Results:
- Static stretching significantly increased reaction latency in both peroneus brevis (66ms to 73ms) and peroneus longus (70ms to 79ms) muscles.
- Electromyography activity (RMS) significantly decreased in peroneus brevis (25.05 to 18.16) and peroneus longus (22.84 to 15.61) muscles post-stretching.
- These changes indicate altered neuromuscular function following static stretching.
Conclusions:
- Static stretching alters the motor responses of the peroneus muscles.
- Increased latency and decreased muscle activation suggest that static stretching compromises neuromuscular control essential for dynamic joint stability.
- Findings highlight potential risks of static stretching for activities requiring rapid joint stabilization.
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