Effects of Isokinetic Exercise on Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of isokinetic resistance exercise on torque development and movement time of individuals with cerebral palsy. Subjects (N = 30) 10 to 20 years of age were matched and assigned to one of three treatment groups: IR, isokinetic resistance; NR, repetitive practice with no resistance; and C, control. The treatment protocol consisted of exercising the tricep extensor group with 3 sets of 10 maximal speed repetitions, 3 times per week for 6 weeks. Data were collected for movement time on the Dekan Performance Analyzer with adapted photoelectric switches. Torque data were collected on the Cybex II with dual channel recorder. Significant differences (p < .05) occurred on both movement time and torque development for the isokinetically trained group. It was concluded that isokinetic resistance exercise affected neuromuscular performance in these youths with cerebral palsy similar to the nonhandicapped population.