Mechanotherapy

Mechanotherapy: Optimization of physiotherapy through mechanical action

In the modern world, physiotherapy is an important component of rehabilitation programs and health improvement. One of the innovative approaches used in physical therapy is mechanotherapy, which uses mechanical equipment to perform periodically repeated movements in certain parts of the human body. This approach helps improve the function of the affected muscles and joints, as well as increase the effectiveness of treatment.

Mechanotherapy is based on the principle of mechanotransduction - a process in which cells respond to mechanical stress by changing their structure and function. This principle is based on the understanding that the tissues and organs of our body adapt to physical stress and mechanical stimuli, which promotes their growth, development and recovery.

The use of mechanotherapy can be useful in various fields of medicine. In sports medicine, it can be used to recover from injury, strengthen muscles, and enhance athletic performance. In orthopedics, mechanotherapy can help in rehabilitation after joint surgery, improving mobility and reducing pain. In neurology, it can be used to restore motor functions after a stroke or spinal injury.

The working principle of mechanotherapy is based on the use of specialized equipment such as exercise machines, stretching and compression devices, as well as other mechanical devices. These devices create controlled and repetitive movements that target specific muscles or joints that need treatment or recovery.

One example of mechanotherapy is the use of variable resistance machines. These machines allow patients to control the level of resistance their muscles are subjected to during exercise. This approach allows you to gradually increase the load and improve muscle strength and endurance.

It is important to note that mechanotherapy should be carried out under the supervision and guidance of a qualified specialist, such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist. This allows you to optimize the treatment program, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient and his state of health.

Mechanotherapy represents a promising approach to improve the results of physical therapy and rehabilitation. Its benefits include:

1. Improved muscle strength and functionality: Mechanotherapy helps activate muscles and stimulate their growth and development. This is especially beneficial for patients who have experienced muscle weakness or atrophy due to injury, disease, or surgery. Regular and controlled mechanical movements help strengthen muscles and restore their function.

2. Improved Mobility and Flexibility: Mechanotherapy can be an effective way to improve joint mobility and flexibility. Mechanical movements help to develop and stretch connective tissues and joints, reducing stiffness and increasing range of motion.

3. Reduce Pain and Inflammation: Some types of mechanical therapy, such as massage and compression and stretch devices, can help reduce pain and inflammation in muscles and joints. Mechanical action stimulates blood flow and lymphatic drainage, which improves metabolic processes and reduces pain signals.

4. Improved coordination and balance: Mechanical therapy can help improve a patient's coordination and balance. Repetitive mechanical movements help train the neuromuscular system, improving its response and control of movement.

5. Acceleration of the recovery process: Due to its way of stimulating tissue and increasing functionality, mechanotherapy can promote a faster recovery process after injury or surgery. It helps speed up tissue healing, muscle recovery and return to daily activities.

In conclusion, mechanical therapy is an effective approach to physical therapy that uses mechanical equipment to create repetitive movements in specific parts of the human body. This approach helps improve muscle and joint function, increase mobility, reduce pain and speed up the recovery process. When used correctly and supervised by a qualified professional, mechanical therapy can be a valuable tool in the field of physical therapy and rehabilitation.

Mechanotherapy is a method of physical therapy that involves using mechanical equipment to perform repetitive movements in a specific part of the patient's body.

During mechanotherapy, special devices and simulators are used that allow passive or active movements in the joints of the limbs or spine. This can be flexion and extension of an arm or leg, rotation at the shoulder, elbow, hip or knee joint, etc.

Mechanotherapy is prescribed after injuries or operations to restore muscle mobility and strength, as well as for various diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Regular repetitive movements improve blood circulation and lymphatic drainage in affected tissues and stimulate regenerative processes.

A course of mechanotherapy usually includes 10-15 procedures. The duration of one procedure is 15-30 minutes. The effect occurs gradually as the range of motion and muscle strength increases. Mechanotherapy is often combined with other types of physiotherapy for comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation.

Mechanotherapeutic equipment may include mats, beds, chairs, loading mechanisms, as well as simulators with specialized software

* Mats and beds are used to develop and increase muscle tone, as well as reduce pain. * A wheelchair or walker with an electric drive and software control helps develop coordination of movements and stimulates blood circulation, improves memory and attention * Mechanotronic load devices (for example, force meters) perform a dual function: measuring hand strength and testing grip strength in case of sports injuries or in complex therapy traumatology.

The results of the use of mechanotherapy are similar to other types of physiotherapeutic influences, with the exception of elements of manual