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Wang H, Liu Y, Xu S, Wang T, Chen X, Jia H, Dong Q, Zhang H, Wang S, Ma H, Hou Z. Proteomics analysis of deep fascia in acute compartment syndrome. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0305275. [PMID: 38950026 PMCID: PMC11216580 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is a syndrome in which local circulation is affected due to increased pressure within the compartment. We previously found in patients with calf fractures, the pressure of fascial compartment could be sharply reduced upon the appearance of tension blisters. Deep fascia, as the important structure for compartment, might play key role in this process. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine the differences in gene profile in deep fascia tissue in fracture patients of the calf with or without tension blisters, and to explore the role of fascia in pressure improvement in ACS. Patients with lower leg fracture were enrolled and divided into control group (CON group, n = 10) without tension blister, and tension blister group (TB group, n = 10). Deep fascia tissues were collected and LC-MS/MS label-free quantitative proteomics were performed. Genes involved in fascia structure and fibroblast function were further validated by Western blot. The differentially expressed proteins were found to be mainly enriched in pathways related to protein synthesis and processing, stress fiber assembly, cell-substrate adhesion, leukocyte mediated cytotoxicity, and cellular response to stress. Compared with the CON group, the expression of Peroxidasin homolog (PXDN), which promotes the function of fibroblasts, and Leukocyte differentiation antigen 74 (CD74), which enhances the proliferation of fibroblasts, were significantly upregulated (p all <0.05), while the expression of Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9), which is involved in collagen hydrolysis, and Neutrophil elastase (ELANE), which is involved in elastin hydrolysis, were significantly reduced in the TB group (p all <0.05), indicating fascia tissue underwent microenvironment reconstruction during ACS. In summary, the ACS accompanied by blisters is associated with the enhanced function and proliferation of fibroblasts and reduced hydrolysis of collagen and elastin. The adaptive alterations in the stiffness and elasticity of the deep fascia might be crucial for pressure release of ACS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haofei Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Orthopaedic Research Institution of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Sujuan Xu
- Orthopaedic Research Institution of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Department of Nephrology, Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Orthopaedic Research Institution of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Xiaojun Chen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Orthopaedic Research Institution of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Huiyang Jia
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Orthopaedic Research Institution of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Qi Dong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Orthopaedic Research Institution of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Heng Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Orthopaedic Research Institution of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Orthopaedic Research Institution of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Huijie Ma
- Department of Physiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Zhiyong Hou
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- Orthopaedic Research Institution of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Intelligent Orthopaedic Equipment, Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
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2
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Mulla DM, Keir PJ. Neuromuscular control: from a biomechanist's perspective. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1217009. [PMID: 37476161 PMCID: PMC10355330 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1217009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding neural control of movement necessitates a collaborative approach between many disciplines, including biomechanics, neuroscience, and motor control. Biomechanics grounds us to the laws of physics that our musculoskeletal system must obey. Neuroscience reveals the inner workings of our nervous system that functions to control our body. Motor control investigates the coordinated motor behaviours we display when interacting with our environment. The combined efforts across the many disciplines aimed at understanding human movement has resulted in a rich and rapidly growing body of literature overflowing with theories, models, and experimental paradigms. As a result, gathering knowledge and drawing connections between the overlapping but seemingly disparate fields can be an overwhelming endeavour. This review paper evolved as a need for us to learn of the diverse perspectives underlying current understanding of neuromuscular control. The purpose of our review paper is to integrate ideas from biomechanics, neuroscience, and motor control to better understand how we voluntarily control our muscles. As biomechanists, we approach this paper starting from a biomechanical modelling framework. We first define the theoretical solutions (i.e., muscle activity patterns) that an individual could feasibly use to complete a motor task. The theoretical solutions will be compared to experimental findings and reveal that individuals display structured muscle activity patterns that do not span the entire theoretical solution space. Prevalent neuromuscular control theories will be discussed in length, highlighting optimality, probabilistic principles, and neuromechanical constraints, that may guide individuals to families of muscle activity solutions within what is theoretically possible. Our intention is for this paper to serve as a primer for the neuromuscular control scientific community by introducing and integrating many of the ideas common across disciplines today, as well as inspire future work to improve the representation of neural control in biomechanical models.
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Finni T, de Brito Fontana H, Maas H. Force transmission and interactions between synergistic muscles. J Biomech 2023; 152:111575. [PMID: 37120913 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2023.111575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The classical view of muscles as independent motors has been challenged over the past decades. An alternative view has emerged in which muscles are not isolated but embedded in a three-dimensional connective tissue network that links them to adjacent muscles and other non-muscular structures in the body. Animal studies showing that the forces measured at the distal and proximal ends of a muscle are not equal have provided undisputable evidence that these connective tissue linkages are strong enough to serve as an extra pathway for muscular force transmission. In this historical review, we first introduce the terminology and anatomy related to these pathways of muscle force transmission and provide a definition for the term epimuscular force transmission. We then focus on important experimental evidence indicating mechanical interactions between synergistic muscles that may affect force transmission and/or influence the muscles' force generating capacity. We illustrate that there may exist different expressions of the highly relevant force-length properties depending on whether the force is measured at the proximal or distal tendon and depending on the dynamics of surrounding structures. Changes in length, activation level or disruption of the connective tissue of neighboring muscles, can affect how muscles interact and produce force on the skeleton. While most direct evidence is from animal experiments, studies on humans also suggest functional implications of the connective tissues surrounding muscles. These implications may explain how distant segments, which are not part of the same joint system, affect force generation at a given joint, and, in clinical conditions, explain observations from tendon transfer surgeries, where a muscle transferred to act as an antagonist continues to produce agonistic moments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taija Finni
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Neuromuscular Research Center, University of Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Heiliane de Brito Fontana
- Department of Morphological Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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4
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The Nonintuitive Contributions of Individual Quadriceps Muscles to Patellar Tracking. J Appl Biomech 2022; 38:237-245. [PMID: 35894982 DOI: 10.1123/jab.2021-0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to quantify the contribution of the individual quadriceps muscles to patellar tracking. The individual and/or combined quadriceps muscles were activated in rabbits (n = 6) during computer-controlled flexion/extension of the knee. Three-dimensional patellar tracking was measured for the vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and rectus femoris when activated alone and when activated simultaneously at different frequencies, producing a range of knee extensor torques. Patellar tracking changed substantially as a function of knee extensor torque and differed between muscles. Specifically, when all quadriceps muscles were activated simultaneously, the patella shifted more medially and proximally and rotated and tilted more medially compared with when vastus lateralis and rectus femoris were activated alone (P < .05), whereas vastus medialis activation alone produced a similar tracking pattern to that observed when all quadriceps muscles were activated simultaneously. Furthermore, patellar tracking for a given muscle condition shifted more medially and proximally and rotated and tilted more medially with increasing knee extensor torques across the entire range of knee joint angles. The authors conclude that patellar tracking depends crucially on knee extensor force/torque and that vastus medialis affects patellar tracking in a distinctly different way than vastus lateralis and rectus femoris, which produce similar tracking patterns.
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Abstract
When animals walk overground, mechanical stimuli activate various receptors located in muscles, joints, and skin. Afferents from these mechanoreceptors project to neuronal networks controlling locomotion in the spinal cord and brain. The dynamic interactions between the control systems at different levels of the neuraxis ensure that locomotion adjusts to its environment and meets task demands. In this article, we describe and discuss the essential contribution of somatosensory feedback to locomotion. We start with a discussion of how biomechanical properties of the body affect somatosensory feedback. We follow with the different types of mechanoreceptors and somatosensory afferents and their activity during locomotion. We then describe central projections to locomotor networks and the modulation of somatosensory feedback during locomotion and its mechanisms. We then discuss experimental approaches and animal models used to investigate the control of locomotion by somatosensory feedback before providing an overview of the different functional roles of somatosensory feedback for locomotion. Lastly, we briefly describe the role of somatosensory feedback in the recovery of locomotion after neurological injury. We highlight the fact that somatosensory feedback is an essential component of a highly integrated system for locomotor control. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 11:1-71, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain Frigon
- Department of Pharmacology-Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Turgay Akay
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Atlantic Mobility Action Project, Brain Repair Center, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Boris I Prilutsky
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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6
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Maas H, Noort W, Smilde HA, Vincent JA, Nardelli P, Cope TC. Detection of epimuscular myofascial forces by Golgi tendon organs. Exp Brain Res 2021; 240:147-158. [PMID: 34677632 PMCID: PMC8803698 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-021-06242-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Skeletal muscles embed multiple tendon organs, both at the proximal and distal ends of muscle fibers. One of the functions of such spatial distribution may be to provide locally unique force feedback, which may become more important when stresses are distributed non-uniformly within the muscle. Forces exerted by connections between adjacent muscles (i.e. epimuscular myofascial forces) may cause such local differences in force. The aim of this exploratory study was to investigate the effects of mechanical interactions between adjacent muscles on sensory encoding by tendon organs. Action potentials from single afferents were recorded intra-axonally in response to ramp-hold release (RHR) stretches of a passive agonistic muscle at different lengths or relative positions of its passive synergist. The tendons of gastrocnemius (GAS), plantaris (PL) and soleus (SO) muscles were cut from the skeleton for attachment to servomotors. Connective tissues among these muscles were kept intact. Lengthening GAS + PL decreased the force threshold of SO tendon organs (p = 0.035). The force threshold of lateral gastrocnemius (LG) tendon organs was not affected by SO length (p = 0.371). Also displacing LG + PL, kept at a constant muscle-tendon unit length, from a proximal to a more distal position resulted in a decrease in force threshold of LG tendon organs (p = 0.007). These results indicate that tendon organ firing is affected by changes in length and/or relative position of adjacent synergistic muscles. We conclude that tendon organs can provide the central nervous system with information about local stresses caused by epimuscular myofascial forces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Wendy Noort
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hiltsje A Smilde
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Physiology, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, 45435, USA
| | - Jacob A Vincent
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Physiology, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, 45435, USA
| | - Paul Nardelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Physiology, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, 45435, USA
- School of Biological Sciences and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- The Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Timothy C Cope
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Physiology, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, 45435, USA
- School of Biological Sciences and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- The Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
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7
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Héroux ME, Whitaker RM, Maas H, Herbert RD. Negligible epimuscular myofascial force transmission between the human rectus femoris and vastus lateralis muscles in passive conditions. Eur J Appl Physiol 2021; 121:3369-3377. [PMID: 34468860 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-021-04801-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE There have been contradictory reports of the effects of epimuscular myofascial force transmission in humans. This study investigated the transmission of myofascial force to the human vastus lateralis muscle by determining whether vastus lateralis slack angle changed with hip angle. Since the distance between the origin and insertion of the vastus lateralis muscle does not change when hip angle changes, any change in vastus lateralis slack angle with hip position can be attributed to epimuscular myofascial force transmission. METHODS Nineteen young adults were tested in hip flexed ([Formula: see text]) and neutral ([Formula: see text]) positions. Ultrasound images of the vastus lateralis muscle were obtained as the knee was passively flexed at [Formula: see text]/s. The knee angle at which vastus lateralis muscle fascicles began to lengthen was used to identify muscle slack angle. RESULTS Overall, there was a negligible effect of hip position on vastus lateralis slack angle ([Formula: see text] [[Formula: see text] to 1.9]; mean [95% confidence interval]). However, a small and variable effect was noted in 3/19 participants. CONCLUSION This result indicates that, over the range of joint angles tested here, there is little or no epimuscular myofascial force transmission between the vastus lateralis muscle and neighbouring bi-articular structures under passive conditions. More broadly, this result provides additional evidence that epimuscular myofascial force transmission tends to be small and variable under passive conditions in healthy human muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin E Héroux
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Margaret Ainsworth Building, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia. .,University of New South Wales, 2031, Randwick, NSW, Australia.
| | - Rachelle M Whitaker
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robert D Herbert
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Margaret Ainsworth Building, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia.,University of New South Wales, 2031, Randwick, NSW, Australia
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8
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Friederich ARW, Audu ML, Triolo RJ. Characterization of the Force Production Capabilities of Paralyzed Trunk Muscles Activated With Functional Neuromuscular Stimulation in Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2021; 68:2389-2399. [PMID: 33211651 PMCID: PMC8131402 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2020.3039404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Paralysis of the trunk results in seated instability leading to difficulties performing activities of daily living. Functional neuromuscular stimulation (FNS) combined with control systems have the potential to restore some dynamic functions of the trunk. However, design of multi-joint, multi-muscle control systems requires characterization of the stimulation-driven muscles responsible for movement. OBJECTIVE This study characterizes the input-output properties of paralyzed trunk muscles activated by FNS, and explores co-activation of muscles. METHODS Four participants with various spinal cord injuries (C7 AIS-B, T4 AIS-B, T5 AIS-A, C5 AIS-C) were constrained so lumbar forces were transmitted to a load cell while an implanted neuroprosthesis activated otherwise paralyzed hip and paraspinal muscles. Isometric force recruitment curves in the nominal seated position were generated by inputting the level of stimulation (pulse width modulation) while measuring the resulting muscle force. Two participants returned for a second experiment where muscles were co-activated to determine if their actions combined linearly. RESULTS Recruitment curves of most trunk and hip muscles fit sigmoid shaped curves with a regression coefficient above 0.75, and co-activation of the muscles combined linearly across the hip and lumbar joint. Subject specific perturbation plots showed one subject is capable of resisting up to a 300N perturbation anteriorly and 125N laterally; with some subjects falling considerably below these values. CONCLUSION Development of a trunk stability control system can use sigmoid recruitment dynamics and assume muscle forces combine linearly. SIGNIFICANCE This study informs future designs of multi-muscle, and multi-dimensional FNS systems to maintain seated posture and stability.
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9
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Han SW, Sawatsky A, Jinha A, Herzog W. Effect of Vastus Medialis Loss on Rabbit Patellofemoral Joint Contact Pressure Distribution. J Appl Biomech 2020; 36:390-396. [PMID: 32843582 DOI: 10.1123/jab.2020-0056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Vastus medialis (VM) weakness is thought to alter patellar tracking, thereby changing the loading of the patellofemoral joint (PFJ), resulting in patellofemoral pain. However, it is challenging to measure VM force and weakness in human studies, nor is it possible to measure the associated mechanical changes in the PFJ. To obtain fundamental insight into VM weakness and its effects on PFJ mechanics, the authors determined PFJ loading in the presence of experimentally simulated VM weakness. Skeletally mature New Zealand White rabbits were used (n = 6), and the vastus lateralis, VM, and rectus femoris were stimulated individually through 3 custom-built nerve cuff electrodes. Muscle torque and PFJ pressure distribution were measured while activating all muscles simultaneously, or when the vastus lateralis and rectus femoris were activated, while VM was not, to simulate a quadriceps muscle strength imbalance. For a given muscular joint torque, peak pressures were greater and joint contact areas were smaller when simulating VM weakness compared with the condition where all muscles were activated simultaneously. The results in the rabbit model support that VM weakness results in altered PFJ loading, which may cause patellofemoral pain, often associated with a strength imbalance of the knee extensor muscle group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Walter Herzog
- University of Calgary
- Federal University of Santa Catarina
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10
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Konow N, Collias A, Biewener AA. Skeletal Muscle Shape Change in Relation to Varying Force Requirements Across Locomotor Conditions. Front Physiol 2020; 11:143. [PMID: 32265722 PMCID: PMC7100385 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Contractions of skeletal muscles to generate in vivo movement involve dynamic changes in contractile and elastic tissue strains that likely interact to influence the force and work of a muscle. However, studies of the in vivo dynamics of skeletal muscle and tendon strains remain largely limited to bipedal animals, and rarely cover the broad spectra of movement requirements met by muscles that operate as motors, struts, or brakes across the various gaits that animals commonly use and conditions they encounter. Using high-speed bi-planar fluoromicrometry, we analyze in vivo strains within the rat medial gastrocnemius (MG) across a range of gait and slope conditions. These conditions require changes in muscle force ranging from decline walk (low) to incline gallop (high). Measurements are made from implanted (0.5–0.8 mm) tantalum spheres marking MG mid-belly width, mid-belly thickness, as well as strains of distal fascicles, the muscle belly, and the Achilles tendon. During stance, as the muscle contracts, muscle force increases linearly with respect to gait–slope combinations, and both shortening and lengthening fiber strains increase from approximately 5 to 15% resting length. Contractile change in muscle thickness (thickness strain) decreases (r2 = 0.86; p = 0.001); whereas, the change in muscle width (width strain) increases (r2 = 0.88; p = 0.001) and tendon strain increases (r2 = 0.77; p = 0.015). Our results demonstrate force-dependency of contractile and tendinous tissue strains with compensatory changes in shape for a key locomotor muscle in the hind limb of a small quadruped. These dynamic changes are linked to the ability of a muscle to tune its force and work output as requirements change with locomotor speed and environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolai Konow
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, United States.,Concord Field Station, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Bedford, MA, United States
| | - Alexandra Collias
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, United States
| | - Andrew A Biewener
- Concord Field Station, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Bedford, MA, United States
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11
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Maas H. Significance of epimuscular myofascial force transmission under passive muscle conditions. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2019; 126:1465-1473. [DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00631.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past 20 yr, force transmission via connective tissue linkages at the muscle belly surface, called epimuscular myofascial force transmission, has been studied extensively. In this article, the effects of epimuscular linkages under passive muscle conditions are reviewed. Several animal studies that included direct (invasive) measurements of force transmission have shown that different connective tissue structures serve as an epimuscular pathway and that these tissues have sufficient stiffness, especially at supraphysiological muscle lengths and relative positions, to transmit substantial passive forces (up to 15% of active optimal force). Exact values of lumped tissue stiffness for different connective tissue structures have not yet been estimated. Experiments using various imaging techniques (ultrasound, MRI, shear wave elastography) have yielded some, but weak, evidence of epimuscular myofascial force transmission for passive muscles in humans. At this point, the functional consequences of epimuscular pathways for muscle and joint mechanics in the intact body are still unknown. Potentially, however, these pathways may affect sensory feedback and, thereby, neuromuscular control. In addition, altered epimuscular force transmission in pathological conditions may also contribute to changes in passive range of joint motion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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12
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Diong J, Héroux ME, Gandevia SC, Herbert RD. Minimal force transmission between human thumb and index finger muscles under passive conditions. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0212496. [PMID: 30768639 PMCID: PMC6377133 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0212496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been hypothesized that force can be transmitted between adjacent muscles. Intermuscle force transmission violates the assumption that muscles act in mechanical isolation, and implies that predictions from biomechanical models are in error due to mechanical interactions between muscles, but the functional relevance of intermuscle force transmission is unclear. To investigate intermuscle force transmission between human flexor pollicis longus and the index finger part of flexor digitorum profundus, we compared finger flexion force produced by passive thumb flexion after one of three conditioning protocols: passive thumb flexion-extension cycling, thumb flexion maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), and thumb extension stretch. Finger flexion force increased after all three conditions. Compared to passive thumb flexion-extension cycling, change in finger flexion force was less after thumb extension stretch (mean difference 0.028 N, 95% CI 0.005 to 0.051 N), but not after thumb flexion MVC (0.007 N, 95% CI -0.020 to 0.033 N). As muscle conditioning changed finger flexion force produced by passive thumb flexion, the change in force is likely due to intermuscle force transmission. Thus, intermuscle force transmission resulting from passive stretch of an adjacent muscle is probably small enough to be ignored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Diong
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Martin E Héroux
- Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick, NSW, Australia.,University of New South Wales, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Simon C Gandevia
- Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick, NSW, Australia.,University of New South Wales, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert D Herbert
- Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), Randwick, NSW, Australia.,University of New South Wales, Randwick, NSW, Australia
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13
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Tijs C, Bernabei M, van Dieën JH, Maas H. Myofascial Loads Can Occur without Fascicle Length Changes. Integr Comp Biol 2019; 58:251-260. [PMID: 29873725 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icy049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Many studies have shown that connective tissue linkages can transmit force between synergistic muscles and that such force transmission depends on the position of these muscles relative to each other and on properties of their intermuscular connective tissues. Moving neighboring muscles has been reported to cause longitudinal deformations within passive muscles held at a constant muscle-tendon unit (MTU) length (e.g., soleus [SO]), but muscle forces were not directly measured. Deformations do not provide a direct measure of the force transmitted between muscles. We combined two different muscle preparations to assess whether myofascial loads exerted by neighboring muscles result in length changes of SO fascicles. We investigated the effects of proximal MTU length changes of two-joint gastrocnemius (GA) and plantaris (PL) muscles on the fascicle length of the one-joint SO muscle within (1) an intact muscle compartment and (2) a disrupted compartment that allowed measurements of fascicle length and distal tendon force of SO simultaneously. SO muscle bellies of Wistar rats (n = 5) were implanted with sonomicrometry crystals. In three animals, connectivity between SO and GA+PL was enhanced. Measurements were performed before and during maximal excitation of all plantar flexor muscles. In both setups, MTU length of GA+PL did not affect the length of SO fascicles, neither during passive nor active conditions. However, lengthening the MTU of GA+PL increased distal tendon force of SO by 43.3-97.8% (P < 0.001) and 27.5-182.6% (P < 0.001), respectively. This indicates that substantial myofascial force transmission between SO and synergistic muscle can occur via a connective tissue network running parallel to the series of SO sarcomeres without substantial length changes of SO fascicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Tijs
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Concord Field Station-Harvard University, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - Michel Bernabei
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Jaap H van Dieën
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Han SW, Sawatsky A, de Brito Fontana H, Herzog W. Contribution of individual quadriceps muscles to knee joint mechanics. J Exp Biol 2019; 222:jeb.188292. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.188292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Many attempts have been made to determine the contribution of individual muscles in an agonistic group to the mechanics of joints. However, previous approaches had the limitations that muscles often could not be controlled in a precise manner, that individual muscles in an agonistic group could not be activated individually, and that individual muscle contributions could not be measured in an actively contracting agonistic group. Here, we introduce a surgical approach that allows for controlled activation of individual muscles of an agonistic group. The approach is illustrated for the vastus lateralis (VL), vastus medialis (VM), and rectus femoris (RF) of the rabbit quadriceps femoris group. We provide exemplar results for potential applications of the approach, such as measuring the pressure distribution in the patellofemoral joint, and the torque–angle relationship of VL, VM and RF when activated individually and when the three muscles are activated simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong-won Han
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Andrew Sawatsky
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Heiliane de Brito Fontana
- Morphological Sciences Department, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Walter Herzog
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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de Brito Fontana H, de Campos D, Sawatsky A, Han SW, Herzog W. Why do muscles lose torque potential when activated within their agonistic group? J Exp Biol 2019; 223:jeb.213843. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.213843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Agonistic muscles lose approximately 20% of their individual torque generating capacity when activated with their agonistic muscles compared to when stimulated in isolation. In this study, we (i) tested if this loss in torque was accompanied by a corresponding loss in force, thereby testing the potential role of changes in moment arms between conditions; (ii) removed all inter-muscular connections between the quadriceps muscles, thus determining the potential role of inter-muscular force transmission; and (iii) systematically changed the inter-muscular pressure by performing experiments at different activation/force levels, thereby exploring the possible role of inter-muscular pressure in the loss of torque capacity with simultaneous muscle activation. Experiments were performed in a New Zealand White rabbit quadriceps model (n=5). Torque and force were measured during activation of femoral nerve branches that supply the individual quadriceps muscles while activating these branches simultaneously and in isolation. Regardless of joint angle and inter-muscular connections between muscles, the differences in torque values between the simultaneous and the isolated activation of the quadriceps muscles were also observed for the directly measured force values. Mean differences in simultaneous and isolated muscle activation remained similar between the intact and separated conditions: torque difference (21±5% of maximum isometric torque of intact condition [MICtorque], versus 19±6% MICtorque respectively) and for force (18±3% MICforce versus 19±7% MICforce respectively). The absolute torque loss was independent of the force, and thus presumably the inter-muscular pressures. Based on these results, we conclude that neither moment arm, inter-muscular pressure nor inter-muscular force transmission seems to be the primary cause for the torque deficit observed during simultaneous compared to isolated muscle activation. The mechanisms underlying loss of force capacity during agonistic muscle contraction remain unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heiliane de Brito Fontana
- Department of Morphological Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Daiani de Campos
- Biomechanics Laboratory, School of Sport Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Andrew Sawatsky
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Seong-won Han
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Walter Herzog
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Nichols TR. Distributed force feedback in the spinal cord and the regulation of limb mechanics. J Neurophysiol 2018; 119:1186-1200. [PMID: 29212914 PMCID: PMC5899305 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00216.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This review is an update on the role of force feedback from Golgi tendon organs in the regulation of limb mechanics during voluntary movement. Current ideas about the role of force feedback are based on modular circuits linking idealized systems of agonists, synergists, and antagonistic muscles. In contrast, force feedback is widely distributed across the muscles of a limb and cannot be understood based on these circuit motifs. Similarly, muscle architecture cannot be understood in terms of idealized systems, since muscles cross multiple joints and axes of rotation and further influence remote joints through inertial coupling. It is hypothesized that distributed force feedback better represents the complex mechanical interactions of muscles, including the stresses in the musculoskeletal network born by muscle articulations, myofascial force transmission, and inertial coupling. Together with the strains of muscle fascicles measured by length feedback from muscle spindle receptors, this integrated proprioceptive feedback represents the mechanical state of the musculoskeletal system. Within the spinal cord, force feedback has excitatory and inhibitory components that coexist in various combinations based on motor task and integrated with length feedback at the premotoneuronal and motoneuronal levels. It is concluded that, in agreement with other investigators, autogenic, excitatory force feedback contributes to propulsion and weight support. It is further concluded that coexistent inhibitory force feedback, together with length feedback, functions to manage interjoint coordination and the mechanical properties of the limb in the face of destabilizing inertial forces and positive force feedback, as required by the accelerations and changing directions of both predator and prey.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Richard Nichols
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology , Atlanta, Georgia
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17
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Yucesoy CA, Ateş F. BTX-A has notable effects contradicting some treatment aims in the rat triceps surae compartment, which are not confined to the muscles injected. J Biomech 2018; 66:78-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2017.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Revised: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Wilke J, Schleip R, Yucesoy CA, Banzer W. Not merely a protective packing organ? A review of fascia and its force transmission capacity. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2018; 124:234-244. [DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00565.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent research indicates that fascia is capable of changing its biomechanical properties. Moreover, as it links the skeletal muscles, forming a body-wide network of multidirectional myofascial continuity, the classical conception of muscles as independent actuators has been challenged. Hence, the present synthesis review aims to characterize the mechanical relevance of the connective tissue for the locomotor system. Results of cadaveric and animal studies suggest a clinically relevant myofascial force transmission to neighboring structures within one limb (e.g., between synergists) and in the course of muscle-fascia chains (e.g., between leg and trunk). Initial in vivo trials appear to underpin these findings, demonstrating the existence of nonlocal exercise effects. However, the factors influencing the amount of transmitted force (e.g., age and physical activity) remain controversial, as well as the role of the central nervous system within the context of the observed remote exercise effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Wilke
- Department of Sports Medicine, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Robert Schleip
- Fascia Research Group, Neurosurgical Clinic Guenzburg of Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Can A. Yucesoy
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Bogazici University, Instanbul, Turkey
| | - Winfried Banzer
- Department of Sports Medicine, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Marinho HVR, Amaral GM, Moreira BS, Santos TRT, Magalhães FA, Souza TR, Fonseca ST. Myofascial force transmission in the lower limb: An in vivo experiment. J Biomech 2017; 63:55-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2017.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Bernabei M, van Dieën JH, Maas H. Evidence of adaptations of locomotor neural drive in response to enhanced intermuscular connectivity between the triceps surae muscles of the rat. J Neurophysiol 2017; 118:1677-1689. [PMID: 28490645 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00625.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Revised: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The aims of this study were to investigate changes 1) in the coordination of activation of the triceps surae muscle group, and 2) in muscle belly length of soleus (SO) and lateral gastrocnemius (LG) during locomotion (trotting) in response to increased stiffness of intermuscular connective tissues in the rat. We measured muscle activation and muscle belly lengths, as well as hindlimb kinematics, before and after an artificial enhancement of the connectivity between SO and LG muscles obtained by implanting a tissue-integrating surgical mesh at the muscles' interface. We found that SO muscle activation decreased to 62%, while activation of LG and medial gastrocnemius muscles increased to 134 and 125%, respectively, compared with the levels measured preintervention. Although secondary additional or amplified activation bursts were observed with enhanced connectivity, the primary pattern of activation over the stride and the burst duration were not affected by the intervention. Similar muscle length changes after manipulation were observed, suggesting that length feedback from spindle receptors within SO and LG was not affected by the connectivity enhancement. We conclude that peripheral mechanical constraints given by morphological (re)organization of connective tissues linking synergists are taken into account by the central nervous system. The observed shift in activity toward the gastrocnemius muscles after the intervention suggests that these larger muscles are preferentially recruited when the soleus has a similar mechanical disadvantage in that it produces an unwanted flexion moment around the knee.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Connective tissue linkages between muscle-tendon units may act as an additional mechanical constraint on the musculoskeletal system, thereby reducing the spectrum of solutions for performing a motor task. We found that intermuscular coordination changes following intermuscular connectivity enhancement. Besides showing that the extent of such connectivity is taken into account by the central nervous system, our results suggest that recruitment of triceps surae muscles is governed by the moments produced at the ankle-knee joints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Bernabei
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap H van Dieën
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Karakuzu A, Pamuk U, Ozturk C, Acar B, Yucesoy CA. Magnetic resonance and diffusion tensor imaging analyses indicate heterogeneous strains along human medial gastrocnemius fascicles caused by submaximal plantar-flexion activity. J Biomech 2017; 57:69-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2017.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Revised: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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22
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Combined magnetic resonance and diffusion tensor imaging analyses provide a powerful tool for in vivo assessment of deformation along human muscle fibers. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2016; 63:207-219. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2016.06.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Revised: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Tijs C, van Dieën JH, Baan GC, Maas H. Synergistic Co-activation Increases the Extent of Mechanical Interaction between Rat Ankle Plantar-Flexors. Front Physiol 2016; 7:414. [PMID: 27708589 PMCID: PMC5030264 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2016.00414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Force transmission between rat ankle plantar-flexors has been found for physiological muscle lengths and relative positions, but only with all muscles maximally activated. The aims of this study were to assess intermuscular mechanical interactions between ankle plantar-flexors during (i) fully passive conditions, (ii) excitation of soleus (SO), (iii) excitation of lateral gastrocnemius (LG), and (iv) during co-activation of SO, and LG (SO&LG). We assessed effects of proximal lengthening of LG and plantaris (PL) muscles (i.e., simulating knee extension) on forces exerted at the distal SO tendon (FSO) and on the force difference between the proximal and distal LG+PL tendons (ΔFLG+PL) of the rat. LG+PL lengthening increased FSO to a larger extent (p = 0.017) during LG excitation (0.0026 N/mm) than during fully passive conditions (0.0009 N/mm). Changes in FSO in response to LG+PL lengthening were lower (p = 0.002) during SO only excitation (0.0056 N/mm) than during SO&LG excitation (0.0101 N/mm). LG+PL lengthening changed ΔFLG+PL to a larger extent (p = 0.007) during SO excitation (0.0211 N/mm) than during fully passive conditions (0.0157 N/mm). In contrast, changes in ΔFLG+PL in response to LG+PL lengthening during LG excitation (0.0331 N/mm) were similar (p = 0.161) to that during SO&LG excitation (0.0370 N/mm). In all conditions, changes of FSO were lower than those of ΔFLG+PL. This indicates that muscle forces were transmitted not only between LG+PL and SO, but also between LG+PL and other surrounding structures. In addition, epimuscular myofascial force transmission between rat ankle plantar-flexors was enhanced by muscle activation. However, the magnitude of this interaction was limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Tijs
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard UniversityCambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jaap H van Dieën
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Guus C Baan
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
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24
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Tijs C, van Dieën JH, Maas H. Limited mechanical effects of intermuscular myofascial connections within the intact rat anterior crural compartment. J Biomech 2016; 49:2953-2959. [PMID: 27452876 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2016.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Revised: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Skeletal muscles of the rat anterior crural compartment are mechanically connected by epimuscular myofascial connections, but the relevance for mechanical muscle function within physiological ranges of joint motion is unclear. We evaluated the net effect at the ankle joint of epimuscular myofascial connections between tibialis anterior (TA) and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles in the rat (n=8) and determined which anatomical structures may mediate such epimuscular mechanical interactions. We assessed (1) effects of knee angle (i.e. changes in EDL length and position relative to TA) and interactions of knee angle with fasciotomy and proximal EDL tenotomy on TA ankle moment and (2) the effect of knee angle on TA and EDL ankle moment summation. Knee angle was varied between 60° and 130°. Ankle angle was kept constant (90°). TA and EDL were excited individually and simultaneously (TA&EDL). The mathematical sum of individual TA and EDL moments was compared with the moment exerted by TA&EDL to assess the extent of non-additive ankle moment summation. Magnitude of TA ankle moment was not affected by knee angle, but frontal plane moment direction was. However, dissections indicated that this was not caused by the compartmental fascia or EDL length changes. Moment summation was non-additive in magnitude (+1.1±1.1% mean±s.d.) and frontal plane direction. The latter was affected by knee angle and ranged from +0.2±0.3° at 60° to +1.1±0.6° at 130°. As the net effects found were very limited, we conclude that myofascial connections between muscles in the anterior crural compartment have limited mechanical relevance during normal movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Tijs
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behaviour and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap H van Dieën
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behaviour and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behaviour and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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25
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Bernabei M, Maas H, van Dieën JH. A lumped stiffness model of intermuscular and extramuscular myofascial pathways of force transmission. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2016; 15:1747-1763. [PMID: 27193153 PMCID: PMC5106516 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-016-0795-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Mechanical behavior of skeletal muscles is commonly modeled under the assumption of mechanical independence between individual muscles within a muscle group. Epimuscular myofascial force transmission via the connective tissue network surrounding a muscle challenges this assumption as it alters the force distributed to the tendons of individual muscles. This study aimed to derive a lumped estimate of stiffness of the intermuscular and extramuscular connective tissues and to assess changes in such stiffness in response to a manipulation of the interface between adjacent muscles. Based on in situ measurements of force transmission in the rat plantar flexors, before and after resection of their connective tissue network, a nonlinear estimate of epimuscular myofascial stiffness was quantified and included in a multi-muscle model with lumped parameters which allows for force transmission depending on the relative position between the muscles in the group. Such stiffness estimate was assessed for a group with normal intermuscular connective tissues and for a group with increased connectivity, mimicking scar tissue development. The model was able to successfully predict the amount of epimuscular force transmission for different experimental conditions than those used to obtain the model parameters. The proposed nonlinear stiffness estimates of epimuscular pathways could be integrated in larger musculoskeletal models, to provide more accurate predictions of force when effects of mechanical interaction or altered epimuscular connections, e.g. after surgery or injury, are substantial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Bernabei
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 9, 1081, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 9, 1081, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Jaap H van Dieën
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 9, 1081, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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26
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Smilde HA, Vincent JA, Baan GC, Nardelli P, Lodder JC, Mansvelder HD, Cope TC, Maas H. Changes in muscle spindle firing in response to length changes of neighboring muscles. J Neurophysiol 2016; 115:3146-55. [PMID: 27075540 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00937.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle force can be transmitted to the skeleton, not only via its tendons of origin and insertion but also through connective tissues linking the muscle belly to surrounding structures. Through such epimuscular myofascial connections, length changes of a muscle may cause length changes within an adjacent muscle and hence, affect muscle spindles. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of epimuscular myofascial forces on feedback from muscle spindles in triceps surae muscles of the rat. We hypothesized that within an intact muscle compartment, muscle spindles not only signal length changes of the muscle in which they are located but can also sense length changes that occur as a result of changing the length of synergistic muscles. Action potentials from single afferents were measured intra-axonally in response to ramp-hold release (RHR) stretches of an agonistic muscle at different lengths of its synergist, as well as in response to synergist RHRs. A decrease in force threshold was found for both soleus (SO) and lateral gastrocnemius afferents, along with an increase in length threshold for SO afferents. In addition, muscle spindle firing could be evoked by RHRs of the synergistic muscle. We conclude that muscle spindles not only signal length changes of the muscle in which they are located but also local length changes that occur as a result of changing the length and relative position of synergistic muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiltsje A Smilde
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Physiology, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio
| | - Jake A Vincent
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Physiology, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio
| | - Guus C Baan
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Paul Nardelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Physiology, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio; School of Applied Physiology and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia; and
| | - Johannes C Lodder
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Huibert D Mansvelder
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tim C Cope
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Physiology, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio; School of Applied Physiology and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia; and
| | - Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands;
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27
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Krause F, Wilke J, Vogt L, Banzer W. Intermuscular force transmission along myofascial chains: a systematic review. J Anat 2016; 228:910-8. [PMID: 27001027 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The present review aims to provide a systematic overview on tensile transmission along myofascial chains based on anatomical dissection studies and in vivo experiments. Evidence for the existence of myofascial chains is growing, and the capability of force transmission via myofascial chains has been hypothesized. However, there is still a lack of evidence concerning the functional significance and capability for force transfer. A systematic literature research was conducted using MEDLINE (Pubmed), ScienceDirect and Google Scholar. Studied myofascial chains encompassed the superficial backline (SBL), the back functional line (BFL) and the front functional line (FFL). Peer-reviewed human dissection studies as well as in vivo experiments reporting intermuscular tension transfer between the constituents of a myofascial chain were included. To assess methodic quality, two independent investigators rated studies by means of validated assessment tools (QUACS and PEDro Scale). The literature research identified 1022 articles. Nine studies (moderate to excellent methodological quality) were included. Concerning the SBL and the BFL, there is moderate evidence for force transfer at all three transitions (based on six studies), and one of two transitions (three studies). One study yields moderate evidence for a slight, but not significant force transfer at one transition in the FFL. The findings of the present study indicate that tension can be transferred between some of the examined adjacent structures. Force transfer might have an impact in overuse conditions as well as on sports performance. However, different methods of force application and measurement hinder the comparability of results. Considering anatomical variations in the degree of continuity and histological differences of the linking structures is crucial for interpretation. Future studies should focus on the in vivo function of myofascial continuity during isolated active or passive tissue tensioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frieder Krause
- Department of Sports Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jan Wilke
- Department of Sports Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Lutz Vogt
- Department of Sports Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Winfried Banzer
- Department of Sports Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Siebert T, Rode C, Till O, Stutzig N, Blickhan R. Force reduction induced by unidirectional transversal muscle loading is independent of local pressure. J Biomech 2016; 49:1156-1161. [PMID: 26976226 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2016.02.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Revised: 02/19/2016] [Accepted: 02/29/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Transversal unidirectional compression applied to muscles via external loading affects muscle contraction dynamics in the longitudinal direction. A recent study reported decreasing longitudinal muscle forces with increasing transversal load applied with a constant contact area (i.e., leading to a simultaneous increase in local pressure). To shed light on these results, we examine whether the decrease in longitudinal force depends on the load, the local pressure, or both. To this end, we perform isometric experiments on rat M. gastrocnemius medialis without and with transversal loading (i) changing the local pressure from 1.1-3.2Ncm(-2) (n=9) at a constant transversal load (1.62N) and (ii) increasing the transversal load (1.15-3.45N) at a constant local pressure of 2.3Ncm(-2) (n=7). While we did not note changes in the decrease in longitudinal muscle force in the first experiment, the second experiment resulted in an almost-linear reduction of longitudinal force between 7.5±0.6% and 14.1±1.7%. We conclude that the observed longitudinal force reduction is not induced by local effects such as malfunction of single muscle compartments, but that similar internal stress conditions and myofilament configurations occur when the local pressure changes given a constant load. The decreased longitudinal force may be explained by increased internal pressure and a deformed myofilament lattice that is likely associated with the decomposition of cross-bridge forces on the one hand and the inhibition of cross-bridges on the other hand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Siebert
- Institute of Sport and Motion Science, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Christian Rode
- Department of Motion Science, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Olaf Till
- Department of Motion Science, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Norman Stutzig
- Institute of Sport and Motion Science, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Reinhard Blickhan
- Department of Motion Science, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
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Unexpected Fascicle Length Changes In Denervated Feline Soleus Muscle During Stance Phase Of Walking. Sci Rep 2015; 5:17619. [PMID: 26635206 PMCID: PMC4669439 DOI: 10.1038/srep17619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
After surgical repair of traumatically severed peripheral nerves, associated muscles are paralyzed for weeks. Little is known about fascicle length changes in paralyzed muscles during locomotion. The aim of this study was to investigate to what extent, if any, muscle fascicles of denervated feline soleus (SO) change length during stance of walking when intact SO synergists are actively contracting. Hindlimb kinematics, SO fascicle and muscle-tendon unit (MTU) length, and EMG activity of SO, lateral gastrocnemius (LG) and medial gastrocnemius (MG) were measured during level and slope walking in adult cats. Measurements were taken before and 1–2 weeks following SO-LG denervation. Unexpectedly, SO fascicle lengthening and shortening during stance in all walking conditions were evident after denervation. The greatest SO fascicle shortening (17.3 ± 2.2% of a reference length) and least fascicle lengthening (1.5 ± 0.8%) after denervation were found during upslope walking, where MG EMG activity was greatest across slopes (P < 0.05) and greatest discrepancies between post denervation SO fascicle and MTU length changes occurred. These findings suggest that myofascial linkages between denervated SO and its active synergists might affect its fascicle length changes. Further studies are needed to directly test this suggestion.
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Cruz-Montecinos C, González Blanche A, López Sánchez D, Cerda M, Sanzana-Cuche R, Cuesta-Vargas A. In vivo relationship between pelvis motion and deep fascia displacement of the medial gastrocnemius: anatomical and functional implications. J Anat 2015; 227:665-72. [PMID: 26467242 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Different authors have modelled myofascial tissue connectivity over a distance using cadaveric models, but in vivo models are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between pelvic motion and deep fascia displacement in the medial gastrocnemius (MG). Deep fascia displacement of the MG was evaluated through automatic tracking with an ultrasound. Angular variation of the pelvis was determined by 2D kinematic analysis. The average maximum fascia displacement and pelvic motion were 1.501 ± 0.78 mm and 6.55 ± 2.47 °, respectively. The result of a simple linear regression between fascia displacement and pelvic motion for three task executions by 17 individuals was r = 0.791 (P < 0.001). Moreover, hamstring flexibility was related to a lower anterior tilt of the pelvis (r = 0.544, P < 0.024) and a lower deep fascia displacement of the MG (r = 0.449, P < 0.042). These results support the concept of myofascial tissue connectivity over a distance in an in vivo model, reinforce the functional concept of force transmission through synergistic muscle groups, and grant new perspectives for the role of fasciae in restricting movement in remote zones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Cruz-Montecinos
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Laboratory of Biomechanics, San José Hospital, Santiago, Chile
| | | | | | - Mauricio Cerda
- SCIAN-Lab, Programme of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, ICBM, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rodolfo Sanzana-Cuche
- Departamento de Ciencias Morfológicas, Facultad de Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Antonio Cuesta-Vargas
- Departamento de Fisioterapia, Andalucía Tech, Cátedra de Fisioterapia y Discapacidad, Instituto de Investigacion Biomedica de Malaga (IBIMA), Clinemtria (F-14), Universidad de Malaga, Málaga, Spain.,School of Clinical Science, Faculty of Health at Queensland University Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
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31
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Bernabei M, van Dieën JH, Baan GC, Maas H. Significant mechanical interactions at physiological lengths and relative positions of rat plantar flexors. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2015; 118:427-36. [DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00703.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In situ studies involving supraphysiological muscle lengths and relative positions have shown that connective tissue linkages connecting adjacent muscles can transmit substantial forces, but the physiological significance is still subject to debate. The present study investigates effects of such epimuscular myofascial force transmission in the rat calf muscles. Unlike previous approaches, we quantified the mechanical interaction between the soleus (SO) and the lateral gastrocnemius and plantaris complex (LG+PL) applying a set of muscle lengths and relative positions corresponding to the range of knee and ankle angles occurring during normal movements. In nine deeply anesthetized Wistar rats, the superficial posterior crural compartment was exposed, and distal and proximal tendons of LG+PL and the distal SO tendon were severed and connected to force transducers. The target muscles were excited simultaneously. We found that SO active and passive tendon force was substantially affected by proximally lengthening of LG+PL mimicking knee extension (10% and 0.8% of maximal active SO force, respectively; P < 0.05). Moreover, SO relative position significantly changed the LG+PL length-force relationship, resulting in nonunique values for passive slack-length and optimum-length estimates. We conclude that also, for physiological muscle conditions, isometric force of rat triceps surae muscles is determined by its muscle-tendon unit length as well as by the length and relative position of its synergists. This has implications for understanding the neuromechanics of skeletal muscle in normal and pathological conditions, as well as for studies relying on the assumption that muscles act as independent force actuators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Bernabei
- Research Institute MOVE, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap H. van Dieën
- Research Institute MOVE, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Guus C. Baan
- Research Institute MOVE, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Huub Maas
- Research Institute MOVE, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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van den Hoorn W, Hodges PW, van Dieën JH, Hug F. Effect of acute noxious stimulation to the leg or back on muscle synergies during walking. J Neurophysiol 2015; 113:244-54. [DOI: 10.1152/jn.00557.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to examine how acute muscle pain affects muscle coordination during gait with consideration of muscle synergies (i.e., group of muscles activated in synchrony), amplitude of muscle activity and kinematics. A secondary aim was to determine whether any adaptation was specific to pain location. Sixteen participants walked on a treadmill during 5 conditions [control, low back pain (LBP), washout LBP, calf pain (CalfP), and washout CalfP]. Five muscle synergies were identified for all of the conditions. Cross-validation analysis showed that muscle synergy vectors extracted for the control condition accounted for >81% of variance accounted for from the other conditions. Muscle synergies were altered very little in some participants ( n = 7 for LBP; n = 10 for CalfP), but were more affected in the others ( n = 9 for LBP; n = 6 for CalfP). No systematic differences between pain locations were observed. Considering all participants, synergies related to propulsion and weight acceptance were largely unaffected by pain, whereas synergies related to other functions (trunk control and leg deceleration) were more affected. Gastrocnemii activity was less during both CalfP and LBP than control. Soleus activity was further reduced during CalfP, and this was associated with reduced plantar flexion. Some lower leg muscles exhibited adaptations depending on pain location (e.g., greater vastus lateralis and rectus femoris activity during CalfP than LBP). Overall, these changes in muscle coordination involve a participant-specific strategy that is important to further explore, as it may explain why some people are more likely to develop persistence of a painful condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolbert van den Hoorn
- The University of Queensland, NHMRC Centre of Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury and Health, School of Health and Rehabilitations Sciences, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul W. Hodges
- The University of Queensland, NHMRC Centre of Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury and Health, School of Health and Rehabilitations Sciences, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jaap H. van Dieën
- MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - François Hug
- The University of Queensland, NHMRC Centre of Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury and Health, School of Health and Rehabilitations Sciences, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- University of Nantes, Laboratory “Motricité, Interactions, Performance” (EA 4334), Nantes, France
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Tijs C, van Dieën JH, Maas H. No functionally relevant mechanical effects of epimuscular myofascial connections between rat ankle plantar flexors. J Exp Biol 2015. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.122747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Triceps surae muscles are mechanically connected by the shared Achilles tendon and by epimuscular myofascial connections. We aimed to assess effects of proximal lengthening of gastrocnemius (GA) and plantaris muscles, imposed by changes in knee angle, on (i) the magnitude and direction of the 3D ankle moment exerted by the soleus (SO) muscle, and on (ii) mechanical interaction between ankle plantar flexor muscles during co-activation of GA muscle, in the rat (n=9). Ankle angle was kept constant (90°), while knee angle was varied between 60° and 130°. At each knee angle, SO was excited individually as well as simultaneously with GA (SO&GA). The mathematical sum of individual SO and GA ankle moments was compared with the ankle moment exerted by SO&GA to assess nonlinear summation. Knee angle did not affect the magnitude of the SO ankle moment (p=0.695). Moment directions in the transverse (p=0.050) and frontal (p=0.008) planes were affected by knee angle, but dissection indicated that this was not caused by length changes of the two-joint synergistic muscles. Nonlinear summation was found in the magnitude (-1.4±1.9%, mean±s.d., p<0.001) and in the frontal plane vector direction of the ankle moment (0.13±0.23°, p=0.003), however, the extent did not change with knee angle. While SO&GA contraction increased Achilles tendon length compared to rest, this length was not knee angle dependent (p=0.649). Despite that intermuscular force transmission per se cannot be excluded, we conclude that in vivo the mechanical effects of epimuscular myofascial connections between rat ankle plantar flexors are not functionally relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Tijs
- MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap H. van Dieën
- MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Huub Maas
- MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Tijs C, van Dieën JH, Baan GC, Maas H. Three-dimensional ankle moments and nonlinear summation of rat triceps surae muscles. PLoS One 2014; 9:e111595. [PMID: 25360524 PMCID: PMC4216100 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0111595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Achilles tendon and epimuscular connective tissues mechanically link the triceps surae muscles. These pathways may cause joint moments exerted by each muscle individually not to sum linearly, both in magnitude and direction. The aims were (i) to assess effects of sagittal plane ankle angle (varied between 150° and 70°) on isometric ankle moments, in both magnitude and direction, exerted by active rat triceps surae muscles, (ii) to assess ankle moment summation between those muscles for a range of ankle angles and (iii) to assess effects of sagittal plane ankle angle and muscle activation on Achilles tendon length. At each ankle angle, soleus (SO) and gastrocnemius (GA) muscles were first excited separately to assess ankle-angle moment characteristics and subsequently both muscles were excited simultaneously to investigate moment summation. The magnitude of ankle moment exerted by SO and GA, the SO direction in the transverse and sagittal planes, and the GA direction in the transverse plane were significantly affected by ankle angle. SO moment direction in the frontal and sagittal planes were significantly different from that of GA. Nonlinear magnitude summation varied between 0.6±2.9% and −3.6±2.9%, while the nonlinear direction summation varied between 0.3±0.4° and −0.4±0.7° in the transverse plane, between 0.5±0.4° and 0.1±0.4° in the frontal plane, and between 3.0±7.9° and 0.3±2.3° in the sagittal plane. Changes in tendon length caused by SO contraction were significantly lower than those during contraction of GA and GA+SO simultaneously. Thus, moments exerted by GA and SO sum nonlinearly both in the magnitude and direction. The limited degree of nonlinear summation may be explained by different mechanisms acting in opposite directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Tijs
- MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap H. van Dieën
- MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Guus C. Baan
- MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Huub Maas
- MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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35
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Yaman A, Ozturk C, Huijing PA, Yucesoy CA. Magnetic resonance imaging assessment of mechanical interactions between human lower leg muscles in vivo. J Biomech Eng 2014; 135:91003. [PMID: 23722229 DOI: 10.1115/1.4024573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2012] [Accepted: 05/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Evidence on epimuscular myofascial force transmission (EMFT) was shown for undissected muscle in situ. We hypothesize that global length changes of gastrocnemius muscle-tendon complex in vivo will cause sizable and heterogeneous local strains within all muscles of the human lower leg. Our goal is to test this hypothesis. A method was developed and validated using high-resolution 3D magnetic resonance image sets and Demons nonrigid registration algorithm for performing large deformation analyses. Calculation of strain tensors per voxel in human muscles in vivo allowed quantifying local heterogeneous tissue deformations and volume changes. After hip and knee movement (Δ knee angle ≈ 25 deg) but without any ankle movement, local lengthening within m. gastrocnemius was shown to occur simultaneously with local shortening (maximally by +34.2% and -32.6%, respectively) at different locations. Moreover, similar local strains occur also within other muscles, despite being kept at constant muscle-tendon complex length. This is shown for synergistic m. soleus and deep flexors, as well as for antagonistic anterior crural and peroneal muscle groups: minimum peak lengthening and shortening equaled 23.3% and 25.54%, respectively despite global isometric conditions. These findings confirm our hypothesis and show that in vivo, muscles are in principle not independent mechanically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alper Yaman
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Boğaziçi University, Istanbul 34342, Turkey
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36
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37
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Abstract
Movement is accomplished by the controlled activation of motor unit populations. Our understanding of motor unit physiology has been derived from experimental work on the properties of single motor units and from computational studies that have integrated the experimental observations into the function of motor unit populations. The article provides brief descriptions of motor unit anatomy and muscle unit properties, with more substantial reviews of motoneuron properties, motor unit recruitment and rate modulation when humans perform voluntary contractions, and the function of an entire motor unit pool. The article emphasizes the advances in knowledge on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the neuromodulation of motoneuron activity and attempts to explain the discharge characteristics of human motor units in terms of these principles. A major finding from this work has been the critical role of descending pathways from the brainstem in modulating the properties and activity of spinal motoneurons. Progress has been substantial, but significant gaps in knowledge remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Heckman
- Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA.
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38
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Ateş F, Özdeşlik RN, Huijing PA, Yucesoy CA. Muscle lengthening surgery causes differential acute mechanical effects in both targeted and non-targeted synergistic muscles. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2013; 23:1199-205. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2013.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2012] [Revised: 05/31/2013] [Accepted: 05/31/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
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Maas H, Baan GC, Huijing PA. Dissection of a single rat muscle-tendon complex changes joint moments exerted by neighboring muscles: implications for invasive surgical interventions. PLoS One 2013; 8:e73510. [PMID: 23967344 PMCID: PMC3742526 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0073510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Accepted: 07/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to investigate mechanical functioning of a single skeletal muscle, active within a group of (previously) synergistic muscles. For this purpose, we assessed wrist angle-active moment characteristics exerted by a group of wrist flexion muscles in the rat for three conditions: (i) after resection of the upper arm skin; (ii) after subsequent distal tenotomy of flexor carpi ulnaris muscle (FCU); and (iii) after subsequent freeing of FCU distal tendon and muscle belly from surrounding tissues (MT dissection). Measurements were performed for a control group and for an experimental group after recovery (5 weeks) from tendon transfer of FCU to extensor carpi radialis (ECR) insertion. To assess if FCU tenotomy and MT dissection affects FCU contributions to wrist moments exclusively or also those of neighboring wrist flexion muscles, these data were compared to wrist angle-moment characteristics of selectively activated FCU. FCU tenotomy and MT dissection decreased wrist moments of the control group at all wrist angles tested, including also angles for which no or minimal wrist moments were measured when activating FCU exclusively. For the tendon transfer group, wrist flexion moment increased after FCU tenotomy, but to a greater extent than can be expected based on wrist extension moments exerted by selectively excited transferred FCU. We conclude that dissection of a single muscle in any surgical treatment does not only affect mechanical characteristics of the target muscle, but also those of other muscles within the same compartment. Our results demonstrate also that even after agonistic-to-antagonistic tendon transfer, mechanical interactions with previously synergistic muscles do remain present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huub Maas
- MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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40
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Fascia Research Congress evidence from the 100 year perspective of Andrew Taylor Still. J Bodyw Mov Ther 2013; 17:356-64. [PMID: 23768282 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2013.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2013] [Accepted: 05/08/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
More than 100 years ago A.T. Still MD founded osteopathic medicine, and specifically described fascia as a covering, with common origins of layers of the fascial system despite diverse names for individual parts. Fascia assists gliding and fluid flow and is highly innervated. Fascia is intimately involved with respiration and with nourishment of all cells of the body, including those of disease and cancer. This paper reviews information presented at the first three International Fascia Research Congresses in 2007, 2009 and 2012 from the perspective of Dr Still, that fascia is vital for organism's growth and support, and it is where disease is sown.
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Carvalhais VODC, Ocarino JDM, Araújo VL, Souza TR, Silva PLP, Fonseca ST. Myofascial force transmission between the latissimus dorsi and gluteus maximus muscles: an in vivo experiment. J Biomech 2013; 46:1003-7. [PMID: 23394717 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2012.11.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2012] [Revised: 10/10/2012] [Accepted: 11/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
There are extensive connections between the latissimus dorsi (LD) and gluteus maximus (GMax) muscles and the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF), which suggests a possible pathway for myofascial force transmission. The present study was designed to provide empirical evidence of myofascial force transmission from LD to contralateral GMax through TFL in vivo. To accomplish this goal, we evaluated whether active or passive tensioning of the LD results in increased passive tension of the contralateral GMax, indexed by changes in the hip resting position (RP) or passive stiffness. The hip RP was defined as the angular position in which the passive joint torque equals zero, and passive hip stiffness was calculated as the change in passive torque per change in joint angle. Thirty-seven subjects underwent an assessment of their passive hip torque against medial rotation by means of an isokinetic dynamometer. These measures were carried out under three test conditions: (1) control, (2) passive LD tensioning and (3) active LD tensioning. Electromyography was used to monitor the activity of the hip muscles and the LD under all conditions. Repeated measures analyses of variance demonstrated that passive LD tensioning shifted the hip RP towards lateral rotation (p=0.009) but did not change the passive hip stiffness (p>0.05). Active LD tensioning shifted the hip RP towards lateral rotation (p<0.001) and increased the passive hip stiffness (p≤0.004). The results demonstrated that manipulation of the LD tension modified the passive hip variables, providing evidence of myofascial force transmission in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviane Otoni do Carmo Carvalhais
- Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Av. Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627-Campus Pampulha, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Lacourpaille L, Hug F, Nordez A. Influence of passive muscle tension on electromechanical delay in humans. PLoS One 2013; 8:e53159. [PMID: 23308153 PMCID: PMC3537731 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0053159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2012] [Accepted: 11/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electromechanical delay is the time lag between onsets of muscle activation and muscle force production and reflects both electro-chemical processes and mechanical processes. The aims of the present study were two-fold: to experimentally determine the slack length of each head of the biceps brachii using elastography and to determine the influence of the length of biceps brachii on electromechanical delay and its electro-chemical/mechanical processes using very high frame rate ultrasound. METHODS/RESULTS First, 12 participants performed two passive stretches to evaluate the change in passive tension for each head of the biceps brachii. Then, they underwent two electrically evoked contractions from 120 to 20° of elbow flexion (0°: full extension), with the echographic probe maintained over the muscle belly and the myotendinous junction of biceps brachii. The slack length was found to occur at 95.5 ± 6.3° and 95.3 ± 8.2° of the elbow joint angle for the long and short heads of the biceps brachii, respectively. The electromechanical delay was significantly longer at 120° (16.9 ± 3.1 ms; p<0.001), 110° (15.0 ± 3.1 ms; p<0.001) and 100° (12.7 ± 2.5 ms; p = 0.01) of elbow joint angle compared to 90° (11.1 ± 1.7 ms). However, the delay between the onset of electrical stimulation and the onset of both muscle fascicles (3.9 ± 0.2 ms) and myotendinous junction (3.7 ± 0.3 ms) motion was not significantly affected by the joint angle (p>0.95). CONCLUSION In contrast to previous observations on gastrocnemius medialis, the onset of muscle motion and the onset of myotendinous junction motion occurred simultaneously regardless of the length of the biceps brachii. That suggests that the between-muscles differences reported in the literature cannot be explained by different muscle passive tension but instead may be attributable to muscle architectural differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian Lacourpaille
- University of Nantes, Laboratory “Motricité, Interactions, Performance” (EA 4334), Nantes, France
| | - François Hug
- University of Nantes, Laboratory “Motricité, Interactions, Performance” (EA 4334), Nantes, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Antoine Nordez
- University of Nantes, Laboratory “Motricité, Interactions, Performance” (EA 4334), Nantes, France
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Jarc AM, Berniker M, Tresch MC. FES control of isometric forces in the rat hindlimb using many muscles. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2013; 60:1422-30. [PMID: 23303688 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2013.2237768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) attempts to restore motor behaviors to paralyzed limbs by electrically stimulating nerves and/or muscles. This restoration of behavior requires specifying commands to a large number of muscles, each making an independent contribution to the ongoing behavior. Efforts to develop FES systems in humans have generally been limited to preprogrammed, fixed muscle activation patterns. The development and evaluation of more sophisticated FES control strategies is difficult to accomplish in humans, mainly because of the limited access of patients for FES experiments. Here, we developed an in vivo FES test platform using a rat model that is capable of using many muscles for control and that can therefore be used to evaluate potential strategies for developing flexible FES control strategies. We first validated this FES test platform by showing consistent force responses to repeated stimulation, monotonically increasing muscle recruitment with constant force directions, and linear summation of costimulated muscles. These results demonstrate that we are able to differentially control the activation of many muscles, despite the small size of the rat hindlimb. We then demonstrate the utility of this platform to test potential FES control strategies, using it to test our ability to effectively produce open-loop control of isometric forces. We show that we are able to use this preparation to produce a range of endpoint forces flexibly and with good accuracy. We suggest that this platform will aid in FES controller design, development, and evaluation, thus accelerating the development of effective FES applications for the restoration of movement in paralyzed patients.
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Pfeifer S, Vallery H, Hardegger M, Riener R, Perreault EJ. Model-based estimation of knee stiffness. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2012; 59:2604-12. [PMID: 22801482 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2012.2207895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
During natural locomotion, the stiffness of the human knee is modulated continuously and subconsciously according to the demands of activity and terrain. Given modern actuator technology, powered transfemoral prostheses could theoretically provide a similar degree of sophistication and function. However, experimentally quantifying knee stiffness modulation during natural gait is challenging. Alternatively, joint stiffness could be estimated in a less disruptive manner using electromyography (EMG) combined with kinetic and kinematic measurements to estimate muscle force, together with models that relate muscle force to stiffness. Here we present the first step in that process, where we develop such an approach and evaluate it in isometric conditions, where experimental measurements are more feasible. Our EMG-guided modeling approach allows us to consider conditions with antagonistic muscle activation, a phenomenon commonly observed in physiological gait. Our validation shows that model-based estimates of knee joint stiffness coincide well with experimental data obtained using conventional perturbation techniques. We conclude that knee stiffness can be accurately estimated in isometric conditions without applying perturbations, which presents an important step toward our ultimate goal of quantifying knee stiffness during gait.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge Pfeifer
- Sensory-Motor Systems Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Tian M, Herbert RD, Hoang P, Gandevia SC, Bilston LE. Myofascial force transmission between the human soleus and gastrocnemius muscles during passive knee motion. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2012; 113:517-23. [PMID: 22723629 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00111.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The plantarflexors of the lower limb are often assumed to act as independent actuators, but the validity of this assumption is the subject of considerable debate. This study aims to determine the degree to which passive changes in gastrocnemius muscle length, induced by knee motion, affect the tension in the adjacent soleus muscle. A second aim is to quantify the magnitude of myofascial passive force transmission between gastrocnemius and adjacent soleus. Fifteen healthy volunteers participated. Simultaneous ultrasound images of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles were obtained during passive knee flexion (0-90°), while keeping the ankle angle fixed at either 70° or 115°. Image correlation analysis was used to quantify muscle fascicle lengths in both muscles. The data show that the soleus muscle fascicles elongate significantly during gastrocnemius shortening. The approximate change in passive soleus force as a result of the observed change in fascicle length was estimated and appears to be <5 N, but this estimate is sensitive to the assumed slack length of soleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maoyi Tian
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
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Effects of plyometric training on passive stiffness of gastrocnemii muscles and Achilles tendon. Eur J Appl Physiol 2011; 112:2849-57. [DOI: 10.1007/s00421-011-2256-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2011] [Accepted: 11/18/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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Abstract
More than 30 muscles drive the hand to perform a multitude of essential dextrous tasks. Here we consider new views on the evolution of hand structure and on peripheral and central constraints for independent control of the digits of the hand. The human hand is widely assumed to have evolved from hands like those of African apes, yet recent studies have shown that our hands and those of the earliest hominids are very similar and unlike those of living apes. Understanding the limits of hand function may come from investigation of our last common ancestor with the great apes, rather than the great apes themselves. In the periphery, movement across the full range of joint space can be limited by mechanical linkages among the extrinsic muscles. Further, peripheral limits occur when the hand adopts some positions in which the contraction of muscles fails to move the joints on which they usually act; there is muscle 'disengagement' and functional paralysis for some actions. Surprisingly, the central nervous system drives the hand seamlessly through this landscape of mechanical limits. Central constraints on control of the individual digits include the spillover of neural drive to neighbouring muscles and their 'compartments', and the inability to make maximal muscle forces when multiple digits contract strongly which produces a force deficit. The pattern of these latter constraints correlates with amounts of daily use of each digit and favours enslaved extension to lift fingers from an object but selective flexion of fingers to contact it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiske van Duinen
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Effects of knee joint angle on global and local strains within human triceps surae muscle: MRI analysis indicating in vivo myofascial force transmission between synergistic muscles. Surg Radiol Anat 2011; 33:869-79. [PMID: 21912991 PMCID: PMC3224220 DOI: 10.1007/s00276-011-0863-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2010] [Accepted: 08/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Mechanical interactions between muscles have been shown for in situ conditions. In vivo data for humans is unavailable. Global and local length changes of calf muscles were studied to test the hypothesis that local strains may occur also within muscle for which global strain equals zero. Methods For determination of globally induced strain in m. gastrocnemius in dissected human cadavers several knee joint angles were imposed, while keeping ankle joint angle constant and measuring its muscle–tendon complex length changes. In vivo local strains in both gastrocnemius and soleus muscles were calculated using MRI techniques in healthy human volunteers comparing images taken at static knee angles of 173° and 150°. Results Imposed global strains on gastrocnemius were much smaller than local strains. High distributions of strains were encountered, e.g. overall lengthened muscle contains locally lengthened, as well as shortened areas within it. Substantial strains were not limited to gastrocnemius, but were found also in synergistic soleus muscle, despite the latter muscle–tendon complex length remaining isometric (constant ankle angle: i.e. global strain = 0), as it does not cross the knee. Based on results of animal experiments this effect is ascribed to myofascial connections between these synergistic muscles. The most likely pathway is the neurovascular tract within the anterior crural compartment (i.e. the collagen reinforcements of blood vessels, lymphatics and nerves). However, direct intermuscular transmission of force may also occur via the perimysium shared between the two muscles. Conclusions Global strains imposed on muscle (joint movement) are not good estimators of in vivo local strains within it: differing in magnitude, as well as direction of length change. Substantial mechanical interaction occurs between calf muscles, which is mediated by myofascial force transmission between these synergistic muscles. This confirms conclusions of previous in situ studies in experimental animals and human patients, for in vivo conditions in healthy human subjects.
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Higham TE, Biewener AA. Functional and architectural complexity within and between muscles: regional variation and intermuscular force transmission. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2011; 366:1477-87. [PMID: 21502119 PMCID: PMC3130453 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2010.0359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past 30 years, studies of single muscles have revealed complex patterns of regional variation in muscle architecture, activation, strain and force. In addition, muscles are often functionally integrated with other muscles in parallel or in series. Understanding the extent of this complexity and the interactions between muscles will profoundly influence how we think of muscles in relation to organismal function, and will allow us to address questions regarding the functional benefits (or lack thereof) and dynamics of this complexity under in vivo conditions. This paper has two main objectives. First, we present a cohesive and integrative review of regional variation in function within muscles, and discuss the functional ramifications that can stem from this variation. This involves splitting regional variation into passive and active components. Second, we assess the functional integration of muscles between different limb segments by presenting new data involving in vivo measurements of activation and strain from the medial gastrocnemius, iliotibialis cranialis and iliotibialis lateralis pars preacetabularis of the helmeted guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) during level running on a motorized treadmill. Future research directions for both of these objectives are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy E Higham
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, 132 Long Hall, Clemson, SC 29634, USA.
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Yeo SH, Mullens CH, Sandercock TG, Pai DK, Tresch MC. Estimation of musculoskeletal models from in situ measurements of muscle action in the rat hindlimb. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 214:735-46. [PMID: 21307059 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.049163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Musculoskeletal models are often created by making detailed anatomical measurements of muscle properties. These measurements can then be used to determine the parameters of canonical models of muscle action. We describe here a complementary approach for developing and validating muscle models, using in situ measurements of muscle actions. We characterized the actions of two rat hindlimb muscles: the gracilis posticus (GRp) and the posterior head of biceps femoris (BFp; excluding the anterior head with vertebral origin). The GRp is a relatively simple muscle, with a circumscribed origin and insertion. The BFp is more complex, with an insertion distributed along the tibia. We measured the six-dimensional isometric forces and moments at the ankle evoked from stimulating each muscle at a range of limb configurations. The variation of forces and moments across the workspace provides a succinct characterization of muscle action. We then used this data to create a simple muscle model with a single point insertion and origin. The model parameters were optimized to best explain the observed force-moment data. This model explained the relatively simple muscle, GRp, very well (R(2)>0.85). Surprisingly, this simple model was also able to explain the action of the BFp, despite its greater complexity (R(2)>0.84). We then compared the actions observed here with those predicted using recently published anatomical measurements. Although the forces and moments predicted for the GRp were very similar to those observed here, the predictions for the BFp differed. These results show the potential utility of the approach described here for the development and refinement of musculoskeletal models based on in situ measurements of muscle actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Hoon Yeo
- Department of Computer Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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