Mechanical strengthening

Question 1

Rationale behind manual strengthening

Answer 1

To reduce weakness - Loss of muscle mass
Neuromuscular

Use of equipment: Free weights, Therabands,
Weights machines, Tin of beans, socks and a walking stick

Question 2

Physiological effects of mechanical strengthening

Answer 2

Increase type II fibre size
Increased movement efficiency
Decrease capillary density
Increase anaerobic processes
Increase type I fibre size
Increased movement efficiency
Increased capillary Density
Increase aerobic processes

Question 3

What structures does mechanical strengthening affect?

Answer 3

Muscle & connective tissue

Question 4

How would you treat a patient using mechanical strengthening?

Answer 4

1) Introduce
2) Explain procedure & benefits for informed consent
3) Check area visually and ask about contraindications
4) teach exercises that work specific muscle, use weight that is over 85% of one rep max
5) advise 2-6 sets of 6 repetitions
6) check for adverse affects

Question 5

What are the contraindications / precautions?

Answer 5

Inflammatory conditions of the muscle or joint
Pain
CV precautions
Valsalva manoeuvre
Fatigue
Overwork / Overtraining
Osteoporosis
Substitute movement
DOMS

Do you have any injuries?
Do you tire easily?
Is there any pain in the area?
Do you have any heart or lung conditions?

Question 6

How would you document this?

Answer 6

Date, Time, Patient name
Explanation of procedure & gaining informed consent
Muscle to be strengthened
Exercise taught, weight used & recommended parameters
Patient feedback - feel okay? Adverse effects?
Sign