The surface electromyographic evaluation of the Functional Reach in elderly subjects

This study proposes a comprehensive assessment of myoelectric activity of the main muscles involved in the Functional Reach (FR) test, in 24 elderly subjects. A specific protocol for the surface electromyography (sEMG) signal acquisition during FR-test was developed. Results show that anterior muscles activate following a caudo-cranial order. Tibialis Anterior (TA) is the first to be activated (-18.0±16.3% of the FR-period), together with Rectus Femoris (-10.4±17.9%). Then, Rectus Abdominis (19.7±24.7%) and Sternocleidomastoideus (19.9±15.6%) activate after the FR-start.

Source: Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology - December 17, 2015 Category: Neurology Authors: E. Maranesi, S. Fioretti, G.G. Ghetti, R.A. Rabini, L. Burattini, O. Mercante, F. Di Nardo Source Type: research