Ergometry is a science that measures the amount of physical work done by the body, usually during exertion, and is aimed at the performance of specific muscles or muscle groups. Ergometry has many practical applications that are utilized in the fields of healthcare and sports medicine.
Ergometry in Healthcare
Physicians frequently use ergometry to identify physical ailments and create treatment plans for patients. One example is the use of an ergometric test to identify or exclude ischemic heart disease.
During the ergometric test, the patient is submitted to physical exercise, usually on a treadmill or stationary bicycle, to increase their heart rate. As the pulse rate rises, an electrocardiogram (ECG) records changes that may occur. These changes could provide evidence of cardiac distress related to an oxygen deficit.
If the ergometric test is indicative of ischemia, physicians can build a plan of care that might include anything from diet management, medications, or surgical interventions. After the interventions are put in place, the patient will submit to subsequent ergometric tests to measure how well the interventions are working.
There have been some recent advances in the tools used in ergometry including the arm ergometer, which looks like bicycle pedals for the arms. Readings from the arm ergometer have proven to be almost as accurate as from equipment that requires patients to pedal with their legs. This advancement allows people with balance issues, paralysis, or the loss of their lower limbs to benefit from ergometric testing too.
Ergometry in Sports Medicine
As the science of ergometry evolves, practical applications are being discovered and used in fields outside of the general healthcare industry. For instance, athletic coaches, trainers, and physicians are becoming more data-driven in their assessments through the use of ergometry. Data is collected and used to measure things like heart function, breathing ability, and a muscle’s ability and strength for performing specific tasks.
Ergometry plays a major role in the field of sports medicine, especially in treating football players who experience concussions. From the peewee leagues to the pros, athlete injuries – especially concussions – are being taken very seriously. An athlete’s performance in simple ergometric tests, through the use of a stationary bike, treadmill, or rowing machine, is used to help determine if they are well enough to return to the game or need time to recuperate and then be tested again. Similar tests are now being put to use in other sports and activities like hockey, rugby, and even rodeo bull riding.
Ergometric tests are also being used by exercise physiologists to provide in-depth analysis and training recommendations for working athletes at all levels. Ergometry can help physiologists understand the energy expenditure and energy cost of performing specific exercises. The data can then be used to build better, more efficient training programs and regimens.
Ergometric data can lead to teaching the body how to be more efficient during energy expenditure and how to use that energy for more powerful and efficient performance. With continuous testing at regular intervals, the athlete’s interpreted data can help build stronger performance with fewer injuries.
