[Therapeutic muscle training].

The needs and motives for a therapeutically oriented muscle training programme are quite varied. The attainment of the maximum possible muscle strength is not the decisive goal, but instead the achievement of motoric function permitting optimal performance during daily physical activities, supporting active participation in sports during leisure time, compensating for deficits in the musculo-skeletal system and counteracting a series of disturbances and limitations in general health. The following goals fall into the realm of a therapeutic muscle training programme: maintenance as well as improvement of muscle function--stabilization of the joints--increase in joint mobility--maintenance of the function of the total skeletal system--support of kinesthetics and body consciousness--promotion of emotional stability--prophylaxis of injury--improvement of the preconditions for total body training. From the above goals the following indications for a therapeutic muscle training programme can be deduced: maintenance of muscle strength and joint function during lack of physical activity and in advanced age--muscle building subsequent to periods of immobilization after injuries and surgery affecting the musculo-skeletal system--stabilization of the joint-muscle system in degenerative joint and spinal diseases, joint instability and hypermobility--treatment of muscular dysbalance, muscular insufficiency, postural abnormalities and weaknesses--mobilization of joints--prophylaxis and therapy of osteoporosis--calesthenics during pregnancy--therapy of urinary incontinence--adjuvant therapy for psychiatric disorders--part of a total body training regimen aimed at physical fitness and general health care.