MECHANICAL PROPERTIES ANALYSES OF THE GASTROCNEMIUS MUSCLE ELECTRICAL STIMULATED AFTER IMMOBILIZATION

Abstract

This study evaluated some mechanical properties of the gastrocnemius muscle immobilized and submitted to neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) through Russian current. Thirty-two (32) Wistar female rats were used, divided into four groups: control (CG), immobilized (IG); immobilized and later free mobilization (IFG) immobilized and later NMES (NMESG). Mechanical experiment of longitudinal traction was carried out to attain the mechanical properties. Results: maximum load 33.68±3.58N (CG), 18.36±4.43N (IG), 25.54±2.88N (IFG) and 28.25±5.88N (NMESG). Maximum elongation 18.37±0.49x10-3m (CG), 10.84±2.11x10-3m (IG), 15.82±1.71x10-3m (IFG) and 17.08±2.30x10-3m (NMESG). Stiffness 1555.14±222.43N/m (CG), 2193.60±847.90N/m (IG), 1715.25±137.25N/m (IFG) and 1654.80±262.28N/m (NMESG). The study suggests that the NMES is not capable to reestablish the muscle mechanical properties after the immobilization.