Syracuse Sun

Kylie Harmon, an assistant professor at the Department of Exercise Science in the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics, has conducted research on preserving muscle mass and strength during periods of immobilization. Her study explored whether mental techniques could maintain muscle condition when physical activity is restricted.

Harmon's interest was sparked by a previous study that applied neuromuscular electrical stimulation to muscles immobilized in a cast. The study preserved muscle mass but not strength. This led her to investigate if specific interventions could independently target either strength or mass.

Harmon explained, "Those researchers saw that daily muscle stimulation helped to maintain muscle size, but didn’t impact muscle strength." She noted that her work used different interventions to improve strength without affecting size, utilizing action observation and mental imagery—techniques where individuals imagine performing muscular contractions.

Her research compared two groups: one using action observation and mental imagery for maintaining strength, and another using electrical stimulation for maintaining size. The aim was "to further demonstrate that strength and size are distinct qualities" requiring specific approaches for effective rehabilitation outcomes.

To establish her methods, Harmon consulted existing literature and collaborated with experts to refine her approach. A team including students at various academic levels assisted in executing the project. The process involved screening participants, fitting them with leg braces and crutches, monitoring their activities through accelerometers, and providing support throughout the experiment.

Data collection included pre-immobilization tests on muscle attributes followed by post-testing after a week of prescribed interventions. Participants who lost strength underwent resistance training until recovery was confirmed.

Remarkably, all participants complied fully with the study requirements throughout the immobilization period.

The detailed discussion with Kylie Harmon about this research can be found on the Falk College website.