Ankle torque steadiness is related to muscle activation variability and coactivation in children with cerebral palsy.

Full Abstract

The aims of this study were to: (1) investigate the significance of muscle activation variability and coactivation for the ability to perform steady submaximal ankle torque (torque steadiness) in healthy children and those with cerebral palsy (CP), and (2) assess ankle function during isometric contractions in those children. Fourteen children with CP who walked with equinus foot deformity and 14 healthy (control) children performed maximal and steady submaximal ankle dorsi- and plantarflexions. Dorsiflexion torque steadiness was related to agonist and antagonist muscle activation variability as well as the plantarflexor coactivation level in children with CP (r > 0.624, P < 0.03). Moreover, children with CP displayed reduced maximal torque and submaximal torque steadiness of both dorsi- and plantarflexion compared with controls (P < 0.05). Both muscle groups may benefit from strength training, as they exhibit poor submaximal control and weakness in children with CP.

Author information

Author/s: Bandholm, Thomas (T); Rose, Martin H (MH); Sløk, Rikke (R); Sonne-Holm, Stig (S); Jensen, Bente R (BR);

Affiliation: Gait Analysis Laboratory, (section 247), Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hvidovre University Hospital, Kettegaard Allé 30, DK-2650, Copenhagen, Denmark. Thomas.Bandholm(-atsign-)hvh.regionh.dk

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Journal: Muscle & nerve (Muscle Nerve), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2009-Sep; vol 40 (issue 3) : pp 402-10

Dates: Created 2009/08/31; Completed 2009/10/06;

PMID: 19662645, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 10/6/2009, IMS Date: )

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