Using MMG to Assist Functional Classification in Wheelchair Rugby Athletes.

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Science
• Rehabilitation Engineering

Background:

• Current functional classification in wheelchair rugby is subjective.
• Objective muscle function assessment is crucial for fair competition and training.
• Mechanomyography (MMG) is a non-invasive technique for muscle vibration analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate wrist muscle activation differences in wheelchair rugby athletes across functional classes and able-bodied individuals.
• To evaluate the potential of mechanomyography (MMG) as an objective tool for functional classification in wheelchair rugby.

Main Methods:

• MMG signals were recorded from 84 wheelchair rugby athletes and 20 able-bodied controls.
• Muscle activation was assessed during wrist flexion, extension, radial, and ulnar deviation.
• MMG data were analyzed in time (RMS) and frequency (MF) domains.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in muscle activation were observed between functional classes and controls (p < 0.05), especially along the Z-axis.
• Athletes with higher impairment showed altered muscle recruitment patterns.
• Individuals in higher functional classes demonstrated more stable muscle responses.

Conclusions:

• MMG shows promise as an objective method for functional classification in adapted sports.
• Distinct neuromuscular adaptations are identifiable through MMG analysis in wheelchair rugby athletes.
• Further research is recommended to optimize MMG application in sports classification.