Effect of concurrent training in unilateral transtibial amputees using Paralympic athletes as a control group

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clinsp.2023.100165

Keywords:

Transtibial Amputation, Concurrent Training, Rehabilitation, Ergospirometry

Abstract

Context: Transtibial Amputation (TA) predisposes to a sedentary lifestyle.

Objectives: To evaluate the efficiency of a short-term (8-week) Concurrent Training (CT) program in Unilateral Transtibial Amputees (UTA) and to compare it with the physical condition of a group of Paralympic athletes in preparation for the Rio de Janeiro Paralympics.

Design: This was a longitudinal, prospective and controlled trial study.

Methods: Thirty-four male subjects with UTA and using prostheses for six months or more were selected for this study. They were divided into two groups: Group 1 (G1) ‒ 17 non-athlete and untrained UTA and Group 2 (G2) ‒ 17 paralympic athletes with active UTA in the training phase. G1 was evaluated before and after eight weeks of CT and G2 made a single evaluation for control. All were submitted to anamnesis, clinical evaluation (blood pressure, electrocardiogram, and heart rate) and cardiopulmonary exercise testing on a lower limb cycle ergometer, and isokinetic knee dynamometry. The CT of G1 included resistance exercise and aerobic interval training on a stationary bicycle and G2 followed the training of the Paralympic teams.

Results: Patients were retested by the same methods after CT. The two most important central dependent variables (maximal oxygen uptake and muscular strength) increased by 22% and knee extensor and flexor strength by 106% and 97%, respectively.

Conclusion: After eight weeks of CT, there was an improvement in general functional condition, muscle strength, and cardiorespiratory performance improving protection against chronic diseases and quality of life.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

Downloads

Published

2023-04-08

Issue

Section

Original Articles

How to Cite

Grecco, M. V., Brech, G. C., Soares-Junior, J. M., Baracat, E. C., Greve, J. M. D., & Silva, P. R. S. (2023). Effect of concurrent training in unilateral transtibial amputees using Paralympic athletes as a control group. Clinics, 78, 100165. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clinsp.2023.100165