Work

Using submaximal contractions to predict the maximum force‐generating ability of muscles

Year: 2011

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Muscle weakness can be caused by decreases in either the maximum force-generating ability of a muscle (MFGA) or neural drive from the nervous system (e.g., after a stroke). Presently, there is no agreed-upon practical method for calculating the MFGA in individuals with central nervous system pathology. The purpose of this study was to identify the best method for determining MFGA. METHODS: The predicted and estimated MFGA of the muscles of 23 non-neurologically impaired subjects (13 males, 21.9 ± 1.9 years) were compared using the burst superimposition, twitch interpolation, doublet interpolation, twitch-to-tetanus ratio, and the adjusted burst superimposition methods. RESULTS: The adjusted burst superimposition test was the most accurate predictor of MFGA. CONCLUSIONS: Further testing is needed to validate the use of the adjusted burst superimposition test in a neurologically impaired population.

Source: Muscle & Nerve

DOI: 10.1002/mus.23254

Authors: Sarah Flynn, Brian A. Knarr, Ramu Perumal, Trisha M. Kesar, Stuart A. Binder‐MacLeod

Institution: University of Delaware

Language: English

Topic: Muscle activation and electromyography studies

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institute of Nursing Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development