Stiffness of knee extensors in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
The series elastic component (SEC) of Hill's muscle model is sensitive to a modification in muscle functional demand. In this study, SEC stiffness was quantified from quick-released movements in knee extensors of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) boys to look for possible modifications with the stage of disease. A SEC stiffness index (SI) was defined and was found significantly lower for controls than for DMD. Moreover, a linear relationship was established between mean SI and knee extensors involvement. This suggests a role for this parameter, together with other functional tests, for following patients with DMD.
Cornu
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C
Département de Génie Biologique, UMR--CNRS 6600, Université de Technologie de Compiègne, France.
Goubel
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F
Fardeau
M
M
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D004548:Elasticity; D006801:Humans; D007717:Knee / Q000503:physiopathology*; D008297:Male; D009119:Muscle Contraction / Q000502:physiology; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000503:physiopathology*; D009136:Muscular Dystrophies / Q000503:physiopathology*