Improving Walking Ability in People With Neurologic  Conditions: A Theoretical Framework for Biomechanics-Driven Exercise Prescription

The purpose of this paper is to discuss how knowledge of the biomechanics of walking can be used to inform the prescription of resistance exercises for people with mobility limitations. Muscle weakness is a key physical impairment that limits walking in commonly occurring neurologic conditions such as cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, and stroke. Few randomized trials to date have shown conclusively that strength training improves walking in people living with these conditions. This appears to be because (1) the most important muscle groups for forward propulsion when walking have not been targeted for strengthening, and (2) strength training protocols have focused on slow and heavy resistance exercises, which do not improve the fast muscle contractions required for walking.
Source: Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation - Category: Rehabilitation Authors: Tags: Special communication Source Type: research