The effects of six-week eccentric-tempo resistance training on lower limb muscle function and soreness in adults with mild and type I osteogenesis imperfecta – A feasibility study

Background This case study investigated the effects of an progressive overload eccentric-tempo resistance training intervention (3sECC/1sCON) on muscle function in adults with mild and type I osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). Methods Eight adults with mild or type I Osteogenesis Imperfecta completed a mixed supervised and unsupervised six-week resistance training program with overloading protocols. Isometric squat (ISOS), countermovement jump (CMJ) and a 5 s sit to stand (5STS) test were undertaken pre- and post-intervention and evaluated by paired sample t-tests ( p ≤ 0.05) and effect sizes. A numerical rating scale (NRS) questionnaire monitored muscle soreness and general musculoskeletal pain assessments and evaluated via a Wilcoxon signed rank test ( p ≤ 0.05). Results Post intervention there was a significant increase in bodyweight normalised ISOS peak force ( p = <.001; g = −2.205 ) as well as CMJ height ( p = .017; g = − 0.98), concentric impulse ( p = .019, g = − 0.953) and peak power ( p = .035, g = − 0.82). 5STS time was significantly reduced ( p = .004; g = 1.343). Training muscle soreness (p = .027) and general musculoskeletal pain ( p = .028) significantly decreased following the training intervention. No other significant changes between pre- and post-testing were observed. Conclusion An eccentric-tempo resistance training program improved muscle function and reduced muscle soreness and general musculoskeletal pain. This feasibility study provides the first insights into the potential benefits of resistance training, and proposes a framework for future practical prescription and research for adults with mild and type I OI