Abstract
Background: The inclusion of resistance training in the treatment and management of muscular dystrophy has previously been discouraged, based on mainly anecdotal evidence. There remains a lack of experimental investigation into resistance training in individuals with muscular dystrophy. The aim of the current study was therefore, to determine the effect of a 12-week resistance training programme on muscle strength and functional tasks in ambulatory adults with muscular dystrophy.Methods: Seventeen ambulatory adults with muscular dystrophy (Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy: n = 6, Limb-Girdle muscular dystrophy: n = 6, Becker muscular dystrophy: n = 5) were recruited for this study. Participants attended three testing sessions: one session at baseline, one session after a 12-week control period and one session after a 12-week resistance training period. Each testing session consisted of measurements of isometric knee extensor and knee flexor maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) torque (Cybex dynamometer). Participants also completed a timed sit-to-stand, a four steps-stair ascent, and a four steps-stair decent. The 12-week resistance training period consisted of two supervised sessions a week. Each training session included a 5-min warm-up, a step-up exercise, free-standing or assisted squats, knee flexion and knee extension exercises, and an additional 6 single-joint exercises specific to each individual's needs.Results: Knee flexor MVC torque increased by 13% after the 12-week resistance training programme (p < 0.05), with no change over the control period. Knee extensor MVC torque did not significantly change after the training programme or the control period. Time taken to complete sit-to-stand, stair ascent and stair descent all decreased (improved) following the 12-week training programme (p < 0.05).Conclusions: A twice-a-week, 12-week, resistance training programme resulted in increased knee flexion strength and improvements in functional tasks in ambulatory adults with muscular dystrophy. This provides support for the inclusion of resistance training in the treatment programmes for these forms of muscular dystrophy.
Highlights
Muscular dystrophy (MD) is an umbrella term for a group of inherited myopathic conditions, caused by mutations in a number of genes [1]
Of particular interest to the completion of functional tasks is the development of strength in the muscles of the lower limb; it is known for example that knee extension and knee flexion maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) torque contribute to stair climbing in other clinical conditions [7,8,9]
The reasons stated for dropping out were [1] a lack of time; [2] flare up of an injury that was sustained before the resistance training programme
Summary
Muscular dystrophy (MD) is an umbrella term for a group of inherited myopathic conditions, caused by mutations in a number of genes [1] This incorrect or missing genetic information alters the structure of the proteins within the sarcoglycan complex (among others), leading to a progressive decline in muscle strength in the affected muscles [2]. In terms of adaptations with training, it is well-established that resistance training increases lower limb muscle strength and physical function in a healthy population [13, 14] These benefits of resistance training are known to be effective in populations characterized with muscle weakness, such as elderly individuals [15], stroke patients [16], and adults with multiple sclerosis [17]. The aim of the current study was to determine the effect of a 12-week resistance training programme on muscle strength and functional tasks in ambulatory adults with muscular dystrophy
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