Changes in Coactivation, Strength, and Gross Dexterity Following Training in Children with Upper Limb Reductions
Presenter Type
UNO Graduate Student (Doctoral)
Major/Field of Study
Biomechanics
Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1928-1917
Advisor Information
Jorge Zuniga
Location
CEC RM #230
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Start Date
22-3-2024 2:30 PM
End Date
22-3-2024 3:45 PM
Abstract
Traditional approaches to understanding prosthetic rejection have primarily focused on extrinsic factors, neglecting crucial neuromuscular aspects. This study addresses the gap by simultaneously examining coactivation, muscle strength, and gross dexterity before and after an 8-week home intervention in children with upper limb reduction deficiency. The research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the physiological and functional changes associated with prosthesis use. Nineteen participants, aged 3-19, with congenital upper limb reductions, underwent an 8-week home intervention using 3D-printed prostheses. Coactivation, strength, and gross dexterity were assessed before and after the home intervention. Coactivation was measured using EMG signals, strength through maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVC), and gross dexterity via the Box and Blocks Test. Following the home intervention, there was a nonsignificant reduction in coactivation and a significant increase in muscle strength across all conditions. Gross dexterity improved in both affected and non-affected hands. Correlation analysis showed a stronger inverse relationship between coactivation and strength post-intervention. These findings suggest that guided training at home positively impacts physiological adaptations, leading to improved prosthesis function. The observed improvements in coactivation and strength support the idea that practical training can enhance motor control strategies, reducing functional limitations. The study's novelty lies in its simultaneous assessment of coactivation, strength, and function before and after an 8-week home intervention, providing valuable insights into the complex dynamics of prosthetic use in children. Further investigations with larger sample sizes are warranted to validate these findings and guide future interventions for pediatric prosthetic users.
Changes in Coactivation, Strength, and Gross Dexterity Following Training in Children with Upper Limb Reductions
CEC RM #230
Traditional approaches to understanding prosthetic rejection have primarily focused on extrinsic factors, neglecting crucial neuromuscular aspects. This study addresses the gap by simultaneously examining coactivation, muscle strength, and gross dexterity before and after an 8-week home intervention in children with upper limb reduction deficiency. The research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the physiological and functional changes associated with prosthesis use. Nineteen participants, aged 3-19, with congenital upper limb reductions, underwent an 8-week home intervention using 3D-printed prostheses. Coactivation, strength, and gross dexterity were assessed before and after the home intervention. Coactivation was measured using EMG signals, strength through maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVC), and gross dexterity via the Box and Blocks Test. Following the home intervention, there was a nonsignificant reduction in coactivation and a significant increase in muscle strength across all conditions. Gross dexterity improved in both affected and non-affected hands. Correlation analysis showed a stronger inverse relationship between coactivation and strength post-intervention. These findings suggest that guided training at home positively impacts physiological adaptations, leading to improved prosthesis function. The observed improvements in coactivation and strength support the idea that practical training can enhance motor control strategies, reducing functional limitations. The study's novelty lies in its simultaneous assessment of coactivation, strength, and function before and after an 8-week home intervention, providing valuable insights into the complex dynamics of prosthetic use in children. Further investigations with larger sample sizes are warranted to validate these findings and guide future interventions for pediatric prosthetic users.