COMPARISON OF UPPER EXTREMITY MUSCLE ARCHITECTURES OF INDIVIDUALS WITH AND WITHOUT INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY

Objective: The aim of this study is to compare and evaluate the upper extremity muscle architecture of individuals with and without intellectual disability by examining them using ultrasonography. The study aims to fill the gap in the literature regarding the muscle architecture of these individuals and to offer suggestions for increasing muscle health through physical activities. Methods: The physical activity level of 27 individuals with intellectual disabilities according to the International Physical Activity Questionnaire data was compared with 27 healthy individuals in a similar category. The images of the dominant side upper extremity muscles of both groups were examined by ultrasonography on different days and at the same time zone. In addition to ultrasound measurements, the individuals' hand grip strengths were determined. The images obtained with ultrasound were examined in the publicly available Image J program and the individuals' muscle thickness was determined. Results: It was determined that the hand region dorsal interosseous muscle, forearm ulna circumference muscles, upper arm anterior and posterior muscles and anterior deltoideus muscle thicknesses of individuals with intellectual disability were significantly lower than the individuals without intellectual disability. In addition, the grip strengths of these individuals were significantly lower than those of the control group. Conclusion: It is recommended that individuals with intellectual disabilities participate in programs that include resistance exercises, especially targeting the upper extremity muscle groups, in order to protect themselves from musculoskeletal problems such as sarcopenia and to increase their grip strength. It is thought that sports that support both physical and social participation, such as Boccia, may be beneficial for these individuals. In addition, this study provides unique guidance to trainers, physiotherapists and coaches, as it is one of the first studies in the literature to evaluate muscle architecture with ultrasonography in individuals with intellectual disabilities.