Int J Sports Med 2021; 42(03): 270-276
DOI: 10.1055/a-1236-3654
Orthopedics & Biomechanics

Neuromuscular Control of Ankle-stabilizing Muscles-specific Effects of Sex and Menstrual Cycle

Iman Akef Khowailed
1   University of St Augustine for Health Sciences, College of Rehabilitative Sciences San Marcos California Campus
,
Haneul Lee
2   Department of Physical Therapy, Gachon University - Medical Campus, Incheon, Korea (the Republic of)
› Author Affiliations
Funding: This work was supported by National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korea government (MSIP; Ministry of Science, ICT & Future Planning) (NRF-2017R1C1B5017867 & 2020R1F1A1075613).

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the differences in neuromuscular control and mechanical properties of the ankle-stabilizing muscles between men and women, and during different phases of menstrual cycle in women. Fifteen women with regular menstrual cycles and 17 male counterparts were included in this study. Electromyographic signals were recorded from the peroneus longus (PL) and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles while performing three balance tasks. Muscle tone, stiffness, and elasticity of muscles were measured using a MyotonPRO in the resting position. Outcomes were measured twice (ovulation and early follicular phases) for women, while measurements were acquired only once for men. Significantly higher tibialis anterior-peroneus longus co-contraction (TA/PL ratio) was observed in all balance tasks in women than in men (p< 0.05); however, significant differences between phases of the menstrual cycle were noted only in the 2 most difficult tasks (p< 0.05). A similar pattern was observed in the postural sway. These results highlight the importance of sex-specific hormonal effects on neuromuscular control and mechanical properties, and as well as the differences during phases of the menstrual cycle. These insights assume significance in the context of developing neuromuscular strategies for the purpose of preventing lower extremity injuries during sports activities.



Publication History

Received: 29 January 2020

Accepted: 01 August 2020

Article published online:
13 September 2020

© 2020. Thieme. All rights reserved.

Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Rüdigerstraße 14, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany

 
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