Skeletal Muscle Adaptations and Passive Muscle Stiffness in Cerebral Palsy: A Literature Review and Conceptual Model.

Skeletal Muscle Adaptations and Passive Muscle Stiffness in Cerebral Palsy: A Literature Review and Conceptual Model. J Appl Biomech. 2018 09 12;:1-37 Authors: Tisha AL, Armstrong AA, Wagoner Johnson A, Lopez-Ortiz C Abstract This literature review focuses on the primary morphological and structural characteristics, and mechanical properties identified in muscles affected by spastic cerebral palsy (CP). CP is a non-progressive neurological disorder caused by brain damage and is commonly diagnosed at birth. Although the brain damage is not progressive, subsequent neuro-physiological developmental adaptations may initiate changes in muscle structure, function, and composition, causing abnormal muscle activity and coordination. The symptoms of CP vary among patients. However, muscle spasticity is commonly present and is one of the most debilitating effects of CP. Here, we present the current knowledge regarding the mechanical properties of skeletal tissue affected by spastic CP. An increase in sarcomere length, collagen content, and fascicle diameter, and a reduction in the number of satellite cells within spastic CP muscle were consistent findings in the literature. Studies differed, however, in changes in fascicle lengths and fiber diameters. We also present a conceptual mechanical model of fascicle force transmission that incorporates mechanisms that impact both serial and lateral force production, highlighting the connections betwee...
Source: Journal of Applied Biomechanics - Category: Sports Medicine Tags: J Appl Biomech Source Type: research