Effective Strength Training For Walking In Neurological Rehabilitation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$175,303.00
Summary
Muscle weakness is the cause of walking problems following neurological problems such as stroke and brain injury. Many studies have used strengthening exercises but few have benefitted. It appears that clinicians have been strengthening the wrong muscle groups and have not used exercises that stimulate the muscles to work the way they do when walking. The aim of this project is to use well established biomechanical and strengthening guidelines to improve walking after neurological injury.
Improving Mobility After Traumatic Brain Injury With Ballistic Strength Training
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$661,430.00
Summary
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is the leading cause of disability amongst young adults, many of whom have difficulty walking. Muscle weakness is the main cause of these walking problems, but previous trials have failed to improve walking performance. We have developed new strengthening exercises which focus on how quickly the muscles can contract, rather than just how strong they are. These exercises can increase muscle power by 60-74% and are likely to improve people’s ability to walk.