Impact of a 2-Month Program of Eccentric Training on Plantar Flexor Structure and Function in Hemiparesis After Stroke.
Maud Pradines, François Jabouille, Marjolaine Baude and 4 others
PMID 41477062WHAT IT FOUND
Eccentric training changed muscle structure and neural activation in stroke survivors but did not improve walking speed or strength.
The intervention was feasible, yet functional outcomes remained null, so it should not be expected to enhance mobility on its own.
Key findings
01Soleus fascicle length increased significantly more in the eccentric training group compared to conventional therapy.
02There were no significant between-group differences in changes in maximal voluntary torque or fast ambulation speed.
03Neural activation of the medial gastrocnemius improved, with greater agonist recruitment and reduced antagonist coactivation in the eccentric group.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTsWhat it means for OTsWhat it means for SLPs
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What it does not show
The study was a small pilot with only 20 participants, which the authors state resulted in insufficient power to detect changes in peak torque and ambulation speed. Residual spastic dystonia was present during ultrasound assessments, meaning muscles were not fully at rest, which complicates comparison with healthy controls. The intervention was delivered on specialized isokinetic equipment, which may not be available in all clinical settings.
Declared interests
The investigators have no financial or nonfinancial disclosures to make in relation to this project.
The easy way to misread this
Do not assume that the observed muscle and neural changes guarantee functional improvement. The study was underpowered for its primary functional outcomes, and walking speed and strength did not significantly improve compared to usual care.
Summarised by AI from the full paper, without a clinician reviewing it. Check it against the source before it changes what you do. Read it on PubMed →