An isokinetic muscle strengthening program for adults with an acquired brain injury leads to meaningful improvements in physical function.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate if an isokinetic strength training programme for leg muscles lead to personally meaningful changes in adults with an acquired brain injury (ABI).


METHODS
A qualitative exploratory design.


METHODS
Twelve people with ABI participated in pre- and post-intervention face-to-face interviews with open ended questions. Data were initially analysed using a case study research approach exploring individuals experiences and then cross case analysis to determine common themes for the group.


METHODS
Twelve-week isokinetic strength training programme for ankle and knee muscles.


RESULTS
Participants perceived changes.


RESULTS
Thematic analysis determined four main themes arising from the interviews; occupation, vitality, sense of self and personal interactions. Participants reported reductions in impairments as a response to the exercise programme and these changes led to increased function and participation in activities they valued. Also marked improvements in vitality were reported as well as increases in self-esteem and general well-being for many participants.


CONCLUSIONS
An isokinetic strength training programme resulted in improvements in motor skills and functional abilities that were meaningful for the participants.
Killington
M J
MJ
South Australian Brain Injury Rehabilitation Services, Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre, 207-255 Hampstead Road, Northfield, South Australia 5085, Australia. Maggie.Killington@health.sa.gov.au
Mackintosh
S F H
SF
Ayres
M
M
D000328:Adult; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009119:Muscle Contraction / Q000502:physiology*; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000502:physiology*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology; D020127:Recovery of Function / Q000502:physiology*; D055070:Resistance Training / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult