FATPLOT

Research into the decline in strength during sustained muscle contractions in humans.

Aim
Fatigue is a very common phenomenon that can be caused by impaired muscle fatigability. We recently developed a very simple method to measure muscle fatigability, using a rubber bulb (Vigorimeter) that the participant squeezes as hard as possible and holds for as long as possible. We now want to examine whether muscle fatigability is comparable when it is measured with a metal handgrip (dynamometer). We also want to establish reference values for muscle fatigability for both devices. This requires a large group of participants of different ages. These reference values will help doctors and physiotherapists to interpret their patients’ scores. Finally, we want to examine how muscle fatigability relates to general health, physical functioning, body composition and self-perceived fatigue.

Team
Prof. dr. Ivan Bautmans,

Prof. dr. Ingo Beyer and

Dr. Liza De Dobbeleer

Frailty & Resilience in Ageing (Vrije Universiteit Brussel) and Department of Geriatrics (UZ Brussel)

Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Jette · Tel: +32 2 477 42 07

Email: ivan.bautmans@vub.be