title: Post space mission lumbo-pelvic neuromuscular reconditioning: a European perspective.
abstract: Long-duration exposure to the space environment causes physical adaptations that are deleterious to optimal functioning on Earth. Post-mission rehabilitation traditionally concentrates on regaining general muscle strength, neuromuscular control, and lumbo-pelvic stability. A particular problem is muscle imbalance caused by the hypertrophy of the flexor and atrophy of the extensor and local lumbo-pelvic muscles, increasing the risk of post-mission injury. A method currently used in European human spaceflight to aid post-mission recovery involves a motor control approach, focusing initially on teaching voluntary contraction of specific lumbo-pelvic muscles and optimizing spinal position, progressing to functional retraining in weight bearing positions. An alternative approach would be to use a Functional Readaptive Exercise Device to appropriately recruit this musculature, thus complementing current rehabilitation programs. Advances in post-mission recovery of this nature may both improve astronaut healthcare and aid terrestrial healthcare through more effective treatment of low back pain and accelerated post bed rest rehabilitation.
authors.forename: Simon N
authors.initials: SN
authors.lastname: Evetts
authors.forename: Nick
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Caplan
authors.forename: Dorothée
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Debuse
authors.forename: Gunda
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Lambrecht
authors.forename: Volker
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Damann
authors.forename: Nora
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Petersen
authors.forename: Julie
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Hides
mesh_terms: D018480:Astronauts; D064131:Back Muscles / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005060:Europe; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D009133:Muscular Atrophy / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D020127:Recovery of Function / Q000502:physiology; D013026:Space Flight; D014893:Weightlessness / Q000009:adverse effects*