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Article: Short-term progressive resistance exercise may not be effective at increasing wrist strength in people with tetraplegia: a randomised controlled trial.(Research)(Report)
- Article from:
- Australian Journal of Physiotherapy
- Article date:
- June 1, 2008
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2008 Australian Physiotherapy Association. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Introduction
Neurologically-induced weakness of the upper limbs is common following tetraplegia and results from partial paralysis of muscles. Partial paralysis occurs from disruption to some but not all neural pathways innervating muscles. The residual strength of partially-paralysed muscles is an important determinant of independence and function in people with tetraplegia (Drolet et al 1999). For example, strength of the wrist extensor muscles impacts on hand function in people with C6 injuries. Anecdotal evidence suggests that small improvements in strength make a substantial difference to the ability of these patients to use their hands. Not surprisingly, ...