MECHANICAL PROPERTIES ANALYSES OF THE GASTROCNEMIUS MUSCLE ELECTRICAL STIMULATED AFTER IMMOBILIZATION

Authors

  • Leonardo César Carvalho
  • Douglas Reis Abdalla
  • Dernival Bertoncello

Keywords:

Skeletal muscle, immobilization, electrical stimulation

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.

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Published

2007-12-12