IMMEDIATE EFFECTS OF THE ROBOT-ASSISTED THERAPY ON TRACK-AND-FIELD ATHLETES DURING RECOVERY FROM INTENSE EXERCISE

Abstract

Aim. This study aims to evaluate the immediate effects of exercise therapy with the Con-trex MJ biomechanical therapy system with biofeedback on the functional status of the neuromuscular system and hemodynamics of the lower extremities. Materials and methods. The study involved 23 male track-and-field athletes (Masters of Sports, International Class Masters of Sports). The neuromuscular system and peripheral circulation were evaluated with electroneuromyography, rheovasography, and dynamometry. The athletes were divided into treatment and control groups and received the following procedures: 1) hydro-, pressure-, and magnet therapy; 2) hydro-, pressure-, and magnet therapy and an individual course of therapeutic exercises on the Con-trex MJ biomechanical therapy system with biofeedback. Results. The results obtained in the treatment group demonstrate decreased residual latency, a balanced rheographic index, increased strength of the left knee joint extensor muscles, as well as a significant decrease in the fa­tigue coefficient on the right. In the control group, a decrease in the rheographic index in the “calf” segment on the right as well as a normalization of the wave transmission time in the “foot” segment on the left were recorded. Conclusion. The biomechanical therapy system combined with hydro-, magnet-, and pressure therapy contributes to a decrease in the time of electric pulse transmission through axon terminals that do not have myelin sheaths, as well as normalization of the arterial blood flow and improvement of muscular imbalance.