Figure 8

Adaptations in stretch reflex responses. Velocity-dependent responses to passive elbow stretch expressed as change scores relative to baseline for post-treatment (gray) and post-washout (black). Data are presented for the first block of the crossover, thus reflect response to a single treatment, FTP (left column) or HYBRID (right column). Negative values signify improvement (i.e., reduced EMG activity (Panel A), position threshold in greater elbow extension (Panel B), reduced passive torque (Panel D)). Positive values would indicate exacerbation of stretch-induced activity. Systematic, velocity-dependent improvements are revealed across parameters following HYBRID. While some improvements are noted following FTP, these are less consistent and not well retained over the 4-week washout. Results for the burst amount variable (Panel C) did not reach statistical significance, but are included to illustrate the consistent effect. Improvements in passive torque were greater and reached statistical significance following the washout. Taken together these results are consistent with the differential rate of neural (early) and muscular (later) adaptations.