ABSTRACT
Optimal release variables, as well as the kinematics and kinetics of athletes, are crucial for the maximization of throwing distance in athletics. Mathematical models and simulations allow throwing techniques to be studied. However, muscle force patterns and the contribution of specific muscle groups in athletics throwing events are not well understood and require detailed research. In this study, important variables of the muscle force generated during the javelin, discus and shot put events were determined using OpenSim software. Musculoskeletal simulations were carried out based on kinematic and kinetic data collected using the Vicon system and Kistler plates with the help of nine top Polish athletes (three in each event). OpenSim software was used to calculate muscle forces and joint velocities. For each discipline, it was found that the main muscle groups involved in the throwing movement were better at distinguishing throwers than joint velocities. The contribution of right ankle plantar flexors at the beginning of the final acceleration phase as well as left hip extensors at the end of the final acceleration phase was given special attention. This work provides a better understanding of the techniques used in athletics throws. Musculoskeletal simulations of throwing styles might help coaches analyze the techniques of individual athletes, resulting in better adjustment of training programmes and injury prevention protocols.
ABSTRACT
Background and Objectives: Application of the EMG-driven robotic training in everyday therapeutic processes is a modern and innovative form of neurorehabilitation among patients after stroke. Active participation of the patient contributes to significantly higher activation of the sensorimotor network during active motor control rather than during passive movement. The study objective was to determine the effect of electromyographic triggering (EMG-triggered) robotic rehabilitation device treatment on walking, muscle force, and spasticity after an ischemic stroke. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 participants with impaired motor function and gait after subacute stroke were included in the study. Each patient was randomly assigned to an intervention or control group (IG or CG). All patients, except standard therapy, underwent 1 additional session of therapy per day, 5 days a week for 6 weeks. IG had 30 min of training on the robot, while CG received exercises on the lower limb rotor. The subjects were assessed with Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), Ashworth scale, knee range of motion (ROM), Lovett Scale, and tight circumference at baseline and at weeks 2, 4, and 6. Results: For seven parameters, the values credibly increased between consecutive measurements, and for the Ashworth scale, they credibly decreased. The biggest changes were observed for the measurements made with Lovett scale. The average thigh circumference as measured 5 and 15 cm above the knee increased credibly more in the robot condition, as compared to control condition. Additionally, the decrease in Ashworth values over time, although statistically credible in both groups, was credibly higher in the robot condition. Conclusion: The inclusion of the EMG-triggered neurorehabilitation robot in the patient's daily rehabilitation plan has a positive effect on outcomes of the treatment. Both proposed rehabilitation protocols significantly improved patients' condition regarding all measured outcomes, but the spasticity and thigh circumference improved significantly better in the robotic group in comparison to controls.
