Dear Tony
You wrote:
> I am undertaking a project on the lasting effect of a single low
> load prolonged stretch on triceps surae extensibility. The
> literature I have studied so far is very varied on what constitutes
> a low load e.g. Wessling et al 1987 utilised a 51lb stretching
> weight while others have used no measured load. Similarly prolonged
> stretches have lasted from 15seconds to several minutes.
Subject tolerance may be a factor in this. High loads may cause
discomfort and therefore cause increased muscle tension response. How
you go about determining what is the maximal amount to use will
require trialling before you can start your research proper.
> I am hoping to utilise a load based on body weight and would be
> interested to receive any information on studies undertaken/clinical
> opinions in relation to what constitutes an optimal low load
> prolonged stretch.
A worthy aim, and certainly relevant for post-grad or above studies
but at your undergrad level I would trial a few weights and go from
there, ortherwise you could be trialling for a year or more!!
Interesting that you have chosen ROM to measure. If
you are going to use a prolonged stretch regime have you thought about
looking at the viscoelastic properties of the muscle-tendon unit.
All the best for the project.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
Erik Dombroski
AIT, School Of Physiotherapy,
Email: [log in to unmask]
URL: http://www.ait.ac.nz/depts/physio/
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