Frank,
Supposedly, eccentric contractions require a much lower level of motor unit
activity. This makes additional units available for use to generate more
force in a more mechanically efficient way (less oxygen used and less
resistant to fatigue). This, along with what Scott stated, is why
eccentrics are utilized as an essential part of an exercise program, and
specifically targeted to tendon dysfunction.
Rege
At 09:39 AM 12/18/2001 +1000, you wrote:
>Frank,
>In addition to improved tensile loading eccentric contractions are able to
withstand greater forces with less muscular activity. Effectively you are
stronger eccentrically than concentrically. This I believe has a lot to do
with the parallel elastic component and stored energy within the tissue,
but a physiologist would better explain this. I could look it up of course
but time is of the essence at present.
>
>Scott
>---
>Scott Epsley
>BPhty., MAPA, SPG.
>PRINCIPAL PHYSIOTHERAPIST
>Clifford Chambers Sports Medicine
>Suite 4, 120 Russell Street
>Toowoomba QLD 4350
>Australia
>
>e-mail: [log in to unmask]
>
>
>On Thu, 13 Dec 2001 06:21:09
> Jason Steffe wrote:
>>Frank,
>>
>>On a physiological level as I understand it, eccentrics provide a higher
load on the musculotendinous unit. As the tissue adapts to the demands
placed upon it, it develops tensile strength. Also, some consider a lack
of eccentric strength to be a contributor to tendonitis. So, as the muscle
builds eccentric strength, it can withstand/absorb the eccentric moments
without significant structural breakdown. Isometrics are also good for
building tendon resiliency b/c they too provide a high amount of tensile
loading.
>>
>>Regards.
>>
>>Jason Steffe, PT, MS, MTC
>>Physiotherapy Associates
>>1901 Phoenix Blvd, Suite 205
>>College Park, GA. 30349
>>Ph: 770-907-1023
>>Fax:770-907-5608
>> ----- Original Message -----
>> From: Frank Conijn
>> To: [log in to unmask]
>> Sent: Wednesday, December 12, 2001 9:53 PM
>> Subject: Eccentric vs. concentric
>>
>>
>> Hello list,
>>
>> Could anyone explain why eccentric exercises would be/are better than
>> concentric, in case of a tendinosis?
>>
>> Thanks in advance,
>> Frank
>>
>>
>
>
Rege Turocy, DHCE, PT
Assistant Professor
Department of Physical Therapy
Rangos School of Health Sciences
Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, PA 15282
412/396-5545
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