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Linderman SE, Scarborough DM, Aspenleiter R, Stein HS, Berkson EM. Assessing Quadriceps Muscle Contraction Using a Novel Surface Mechanomyography Sensor during Two Neuromuscular Control Screening Tasks. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:6031. [PMID: 37447881 DOI: 10.3390/s23136031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Electromyography (EMG) is the clinical standard for capturing muscle activation data to gain insight into neuromuscular control, yet challenges surrounding data analysis limit its use during dynamic tasks. Surface mechanomyography (sMMG) sensors are novel wearable devices that measure the physical output of muscle excursion during contraction, which may offer potential easy application to assess neuromuscular control. This study aimed to investigate sMMG detection of the timing patterns of muscle contraction compared to EMG. Fifteen healthy participants (mean age = 31.7 ± 9.1 y; eight males and seven females) were donned with EMG and sMMG sensors on their right quadriceps for simultaneous data capture during bilateral deep squats, and a subset performed three sets of repeated unilateral partial squats. No significant difference in the total duration of contraction was detected by EMG and sMMG during bilateral (p = 0.822) and partial (p = 0.246) squats. sMMG and EMG timing did not differ significantly for eccentric (p = 0.414) and concentric (p = 0.462) phases of muscle contraction during bilateral squats. The sMMG magnitude of quadriceps excursion demonstrated excellent intra-session retest reliability for bilateral (ICC3,1 = 0.962 mm) and partial (ICC3,1 = 0.936 mm, n = 10) squats. The sMMG sensors accurately and consistently provided key quadriceps muscle performance metrics during two physical activities commonly used to assess neuromuscular control for injury prevention, rehabilitation, and exercise training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon E Linderman
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | | | | | - Hannah S Stein
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Eric M Berkson
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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2
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Ueda H, Saegusa R, Tsuchiya Y, Ochi E. Pedal cadence does not affect muscle damage to eccentric cycling performed at similar mechanical work. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1140359. [PMID: 36969610 PMCID: PMC10036782 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1140359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This study aimed to investigate muscle damage when performing equal mechanical work of fast and slow pedaling speed by eccentric muscle actions (ECCs) cycling.Methods: Nineteen young men [mean ± standard deviation (SD) age: 21.0 ± 2.2 years; height: 172.7 ± 5.9 cm; and body mass: 70.2 ± 10.5 kg] performed maximal effort of ECCs cycling exercise with fast speed (Fast) and slow speed trials (Slow). First, subjects performed the Fast for 5 min by one leg. Second, Slow performed until the total mechanical work was equal to that generated during Fast other one leg. Changes in maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) torque of knee extension, isokinetic pedaling peak torque (IPT), range of motion (ROM), muscle soreness, thigh circumference, muscle echo intensity, and muscle stiffness were assessed before exercise, and immediately after exercise, and 1 and 4 days after exercise.Results: Exercise time was observed in the Slow (1422.0 ± 330.0 s) longer than Fast (300.0 ± 0.0 s). However, a significant difference was not observed in total work (Fast:214.8 ± 42.4 J/kg, Slow: 214.3 ± 42.2 J/kg). A significant interaction effect was not observed in peak values of MVC torque (Fast:1.7 ± 0.4 Nm/kg, Slow: 1.8 ± 0.5 Nm/kg), IPT, muscle soreness (Fast:4.3 ± 1.6 cm, Slow: 4.7 ± 2.9 cm). In addition, ROM, circumference, muscle thickness, muscle echo intensity, and muscle stiffness also showed no significant interaction.Conclusion: The magnitude of muscle damage is similar for ECCs cycling with equal work regardless of velocity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisashi Ueda
- Faculty of Healthcare and Medical Sports, Teikyo Heisei University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Riki Saegusa
- Faculty of Bioscience and Applied Chemistry, Hosei University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yosuke Tsuchiya
- Center for Liberal Arts, Laboratory of Health and Sports Sciences, Meiji Gakuin University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Eisuke Ochi
- Faculty of Bioscience and Applied Chemistry, Hosei University, Tokyo, Japan
- Graduate School of Sports and Health Studies, Hosei University, Tokyo, Japan
- *Correspondence: Eisuke Ochi,
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Tsuchiya Y, Yanagimoto K, Sunagawa N, Ueda H, Tsuji K, Ochi E. Omega-3 fatty acids enhance the beneficial effect of BCAA supplementation on muscle function following eccentric contractions. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2022; 19:565-579. [PMID: 36105122 PMCID: PMC9467596 DOI: 10.1080/15502783.2022.2117994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Methods Results Conclusions
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Tsuchiya
- Meiji Gakuin University, Center for Liberal Arts, Laboratory of Health and Sports Sciences, Kanagawa, Japan
| | | | | | - Hisashi Ueda
- Teikyo Heisei University, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, Chiba, Japan
| | - Katsunori Tsuji
- Hosei University, Faculty of Bioscience and Applied Chemistry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eisuke Ochi
- Hosei University, Faculty of Bioscience and Applied Chemistry, Tokyo, Japan
- Hosei University, Graduate School of Sports and Health Studies, Tokyo, Japan
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Lyle MA, Cuadra C, Wolf SL. Quadriceps muscle stimulation evokes heteronymous inhibition onto soleus with limited Ia activation compared to femoral nerve stimulation. Exp Brain Res 2022; 240:2375-2388. [PMID: 35881156 PMCID: PMC10314715 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-022-06422-7] [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] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Heteronymous excitatory feedback from muscle spindles and inhibitory feedback from Golgi tendon organs and recurrent inhibitory circuits can influence motor coordination. The functional role of inhibitory feedback is difficult to determine, because nerve stimulation, the primary method used in humans, cannot evoke inhibition without first activating the largest diameter muscle spindle axons. Here, we tested the hypothesis that quadriceps muscle stimulation could be used to examine heteronymous inhibition more selectively when compared to femoral nerve stimulation by comparing the effects of nerve and muscle stimulation onto ongoing soleus EMG held at 20% of maximal effort. Motor threshold and two higher femoral nerve and quadriceps stimulus intensities matched by twitch evoked torque magnitudes were examined. We found that significantly fewer participants exhibited excitation during quadriceps muscle stimulation when compared to nerve stimulation (14-29% vs. 64-71% of participants across stimulation intensities) and the magnitude of heteronymous excitation from muscle stimulation, when present, was much reduced compared to nerve stimulation. Muscle and nerve stimulation resulted in heteronymous inhibition that significantly increased with increasing stimulation evoked torque magnitudes. This study provides novel evidence that muscle stimulation may be used to more selectively examine inhibitory heteronymous feedback between muscles in the human lower limb when compared to nerve stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Lyle
- Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 1441 Clifton Road, N.E. Room 236D, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Cristian Cuadra
- Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 1441 Clifton Road, N.E. Room 236D, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Laboratory, School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, 7591538, Santiago, Chile
| | - Steven L Wolf
- Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 1441 Clifton Road, N.E. Room 236D, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Senior Research Scientist, Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Health Care System, Atlanta, GA, USA
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He Z, Qi Z, Liu H, Wang K, Roberts L, Liu JZ, Liu Y, Wang SJ, Cook MJ, Simon GP, Qiu L, Li D. Detecting subtle yet fast skeletal muscle contractions with ultrasoft and durable graphene-based cellular materials. Natl Sci Rev 2021; 9:nwab184. [PMID: 35401990 PMCID: PMC8986457 DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwab184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Human bodily movements are primarily controlled by the contractions of skeletal muscles. Unlike joint or skeletal movements that are generally performed in the large displacement range, the contractions of the skeletal muscles that underpin these movements are subtle in intensity yet high in frequency. This subtlety of movement makes it a formidable challenge to develop wearable and durable soft materials to electrically monitor such motions with high fidelity for the purpose of, for example, muscle/neuromuscular disease diagnosis. Here we report that an intrinsically fragile ultralow-density graphene-based cellular monolith sandwiched between silicone rubbers can exhibit a highly effective stress and strain transfer mechanism at its interface with the rubber, with a remarkable improvement in stretchability (>100%). In particular, this hybrid also exhibits a highly sensitive, broadband-frequency electrical response (up to 180 Hz) for a wide range of strains. By correlating the mechanical signal of muscle movements obtained from this hybrid material with electromyography, we demonstrate that the strain sensor based on this hybrid material may provide a new, soft and wearable mechanomyography approach for real-time monitoring of complex neuromuscular–skeletal interactions in a broad range of healthcare and human–machine interface applications. This work also provides a new architecture-enabled functional soft material platform for wearable electronics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijun He
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3010, Australia
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia
| | - Zheng Qi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia
| | - Huichao Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Strength and Vibration of Mechanical Structures, School of Aerospace Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
| | - Kangyan Wang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3010, Australia
| | - Leslie Roberts
- Neurophysiology Department, Department of Neurology and Neurological Research, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne 3065, Australia
- Department of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3010, Australia
| | - Jefferson Z Liu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3010, Australia
| | - Yilun Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Strength and Vibration of Mechanical Structures, School of Aerospace Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
| | - Stephen J Wang
- Department of Design, Monash University, Melbourne 3145, Australia
- School of Design, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Mark J Cook
- Department of Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3010, Australia
| | - George P Simon
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia
| | - Ling Qiu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia
- Shenzhen Geim Graphene Center, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3010, Australia
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia
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Ochi E, Ueda H, Tsuchiya Y, Nakazato K. Eccentric exercise causes delayed sensory nerve conduction velocity but no repeated bout effect in the flexor pollicis brevis muscles. Eur J Appl Physiol 2021; 121:3069-3081. [PMID: 34312697 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-021-04773-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was aimed at investigating the effect of eccentric contractions (ECCs) of flexor pollicis brevis muscles (FPBMs) on motor and sensory nerve functions as well as the ipsilateral repeated bout effect (IL-RBE) and contralateral (CL)-RBE of motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities following ECCs. METHODS Thirty-two young healthy men (age: 19.6 ± 0.2 years, height: 173.2 ± 1.2 cm, body mass: 69.7 ± 1.9 kg) performed two bouts of ECCs. During the first ECCs bout (ECCs-1), all participants performed 100 ECCs with 1 hand; for the second bout, 3 groups (2 weeks [W]: n = 11, 4W: n = 10, 8W: n = 11) performed ECCs with both hands 2, 4, or 8 weeks after ECCs-1. The maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVC), range of motion (ROM), visual analog scale for pain (VAS), motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities were measured before, immediately after, and 1, 2, 3, and 5 days after ECCs. RESULTS ECCs-1 decreased the MVC, limited the ROM, developed VAS, and decreased the motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities compared to non-exercise hand (p < 0.05). The repeated bout effect was observed in the ROM for IL-RBE in 2W and 4W, VAS for IL-RBE in 2 W, and ROM and VAS for CL-RBE in 2W (p < 0.05). However, RBEs of MVC and motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities were not observed, and no differences were confirmed depending on the interval. CONCLUSION In the present study, ECCs of the FPBM caused a sensory nerve dysfunction, while IL- or CL-RBE was not observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eisuke Ochi
- Faculty of Bioscience and Applied Chemistry, Hosei University, 3-7-2, Kajino, Koganei, Tokyo, 184-8584, Japan.
- Graduate School of Sports and Health Studies, Hosei University, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Hisashi Ueda
- Faculty of Health and Medical Science, Teikyo Heisei University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yosuke Tsuchiya
- Center for Liberal Arts, Laboratory of Health and Sports Sciences, Meiji Gakuin University, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Koichi Nakazato
- Graduate School of Health and Sports Science, Nippon Sport Science University, Tokyo, Japan
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Electromechanical delay of the hamstrings following semitendinosus tendon autografts in return to competition athletes. Eur J Appl Physiol 2021; 121:1849-1858. [PMID: 33709206 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-021-04639-y] [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: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Knee flexor electromechanical delay (EMD) has been proposed as a contributing factor to non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury risk and the semitendinosus (ST) autograft technique has been shown to impair knee flexor torque at large angles of knee flexion. The purpose of this study was to analyse the effects of ACL reconstruction (ACLR) using the ST tendon autograft technique on knee flexor EMD across the knee flexion range of motion, in athletes who had returned to competition. METHODS Athletes with ACLR (n = 8 females, n = 3 males, 1.7 ± 0.5 years post-surgery) and non-injured control athletes (n = 6 females, n = 4 males) performed rapid maximal voluntary contractions of isometric knee flexion and extension at 30°, 50°, 70°, 90°,and 105° of knee flexion. Electrical activity of the ST, biceps femoris (BF), vastus lateralis, and vastus medialis was recorded using surface electromyography. RESULTS No change in EMD for the knee flexors or extensors was observed across joint angles. Greater EMD was found only for the BF in the ACLR limb of injured athletes compared to the contralateral limb (P < 0.05). In post-hoc analysis, evidence of ST tendon regrowth was noted for only 2/11 athletes. CONCLUSION While the EMD-joint angle relationship appeared to be unaffected by ST tendon harvest for ACLR, the absence of ST tendon regrowth should be considered. Despite return to competition, greater BF EMD was found, which may impair knee joint stabilization capacity by delaying the transfer time of muscle tension to the tibia after ST autograft.
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8
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Son J, Rymer WZ. Longer electromechanical delay in paretic triceps surae muscles during voluntary isometric plantarflexion torque generation in chronic hemispheric stroke survivors. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2020; 56:102475. [PMID: 33242750 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2020.102475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Electromechanical delay (EMD) is the time delay between the onset of muscle activity and the onset of force/joint torque. This delay appears to be linked to muscular contraction efficiency. However, to our knowledge, limited evidence is available regarding the magnitude of the EMD in stroke-impaired muscles. Accordingly, this study aims to quantify the EMD in both paretic and non-paretic triceps surae muscles of chronic hemispheric stroke survivors, and to investigate whether the EMD is related to voluntary force-generating capacity in this muscle group. Nine male chronic stroke survivors were asked to perform isometric plantarflexion contractions at different force levels and at different ankle joint angles ranging from maximum plantarflexion to maximum dorsiflexion. The surface electromyograms were recorded from triceps surae muscles. The longest EMD among triceps surae muscles was chosen as the EMD for each side. Our results revealed that the EMD in paretic muscles was significantly longer than in non-paretic muscles. Moreover, both paretic and non-paretic muscles showed a negative correlation between the EMD and maximum torque-generating capacity. In addition, there was a strong positive relationship between the EMD and shear wave speed in paretic muscles as well as a negative relationship between the EMD and passive ankle joint range of motion. These findings imply that the EMD may be a useful biomarker, in part, associated with contractile and material properties in stroke-impaired muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jongsang Son
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab (formerly the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago), Chicago, IL, United States; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States.
| | - William Zev Rymer
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab (formerly the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago), Chicago, IL, United States; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
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Cè E, Coratella G, Bisconti AV, Venturelli M, Limonta E, Doria C, Rampichini S, Longo S, Esposito F. Neuromuscular versus Mechanical Stretch-induced Changes in Contralateral versus Ipsilateral Muscle. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2020; 52:1294-1306. [PMID: 31913244 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Whether or not the homologous contralateral muscle (CM) undergoes stretch-induced force reduction as the stretched muscle (SM) is still unclear. The neuromuscular and mechanical factors underlying the force reduction in CM and SM were investigated. METHODS Twenty-one participants underwent unilateral knee extensors passive stretching. In both CM and SM, before, immediately after (POST), 5 (POST5), and 10 min (POST10) after passive stretching, maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), peak force (pF), and voluntary activation (VA) were measured. During MVC, the electromyographic and mechanomyographic root mean square (EMG RMS and MMG RMS, respectively) was calculated in rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, and vastus medialis, together with M-wave. The total electromechanical delay (EMD), divided in time delay (Δt) EMG-MMG and Δt MMG-F was calculated. RESULTS In CM at POST, the decrease in MVC (-11%; 95% confidence interval [CI], -13 to -9; effect size [ES], -2.27) was accompanied by a fall in VA (-7%; 95% CI, -9 to -4; ES, -2.29), EMG RMS (range, -22% to -11%; ES, -3.92 to -2.25), MMG RMS (range, -10% to -8%; ES, -0.52 to -0.39) and an increase in Δt EMG-MMG (≈+10%; ES, 0.73 to 0.93). All changes returned to baseline at POST5. In SM, decrease in MVC (-19%; 95% CI, -24 to -18; ES, -3.08), pF (-25%; 95% CI, -28 to -22; ES, -4.90), VA (-10%; 95% CI, -11 to -9; ES, -5.71), EMG RMS (≈-33%; ES, -5.23 to -3.22) and rise in MMG RMS (range, +25% to +32%; ES, 4.21 to 4.98) and EMD (≈+28%; ES, 1.59 to 1.77) were observed at POST and persisted at POST10. No change in M-wave occurred. CONCLUSIONS The contralateral central motor drive stretch-induced inhibition seems to account for the force reduction in CM. In SM, both central inhibition and mechanical factors concurred.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giuseppe Coratella
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, ITALY
| | | | | | - Eloisa Limonta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, ITALY
| | - Christian Doria
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, ITALY
| | - Susanna Rampichini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, ITALY
| | - Stefano Longo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, ITALY
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Tsuchiya Y, Ueda H, Sugita N, Ochi E. Low Dose of β-Hydroxy-β-Methylbutyrate (HMB) Alleviates Muscle Strength Loss and Limited Joint Flexibility following Eccentric Contractions. J Am Coll Nutr 2020; 40:211-218. [PMID: 32281915 DOI: 10.1080/07315724.2020.1752330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The optimal dose of β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB) required for decreasing muscle damage remains unknown. Therefore, this study investigated the supplemental effect of low-dose HMB on muscle damage following eccentric contractions (ECCs) of human elbow flexors.Methods: Twenty untrained men (aged 20-26; height, 169.4 ± 5.7 cm; weight, 68.2 ± 11.3 kg; body mass index, 23.7 ± 3.3) completed the double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel design study. The subjects were randomly assigned to the ingestion of HMB supplement (HMB, n = 10) or placebo group (PL, n = 10). After the subjects of 1.5 g HMB or placebo pills per day for 2 weeks, they performed six sets of 10 ECCs at 100% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) using dumbbell. Changes in MVC torque, range of motion (ROM), upper arm circumference, muscle soreness, and muscle stiffness were assessed before, immediately after, 1, 2, 3, 5 days after exercise.Results: MVC torque was significantly higher in the HMB group than in the PL group immediately after (HMB, -56.8%; PL, -67.1%) as well as 3 (HMB: -25.5%, PL: -48.7%) and 5 (HMB: -22.5%, PL: -44.0%) days after performing ECCs (p < 0.05). Additionally, ROM was significantly higher in the HMB group than in the PL group immediately after (HMB, -29.8%; PL, -50.5%) and 5 (HMB: -26.1%, PL: -43.3%) days after performing ECCs (p < 0.05). No between-group differences were observed in other muscle damage markers.Conclusion: The low-dose HMB supplementation demonstrated a moderate overall impact and played a beneficial role in muscle dysfunction and joint flexibility following ECCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Tsuchiya
- Faculty of Modern Life, Teikyo Heisei University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hisashi Ueda
- Faculty of Health and Medical Science, Teikyo Heisei University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Naoki Sugita
- Fine Chemical Research & Development Section, Kobayashi Perfumery Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eisuke Ochi
- Faculty of Bioscience and Applied Chemistry, Hosei University, Tokyo, Japan
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Cè E, Longo S, Limonta E, Coratella G, Rampichini S, Esposito F. Peripheral fatigue: new mechanistic insights from recent technologies. Eur J Appl Physiol 2019; 120:17-39. [DOI: 10.1007/s00421-019-04264-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Schmid L, Klotz T, Siebert T, Röhrle O. Characterization of Electromechanical Delay Based on a Biophysical Multi-Scale Skeletal Muscle Model. Front Physiol 2019; 10:1270. [PMID: 31649554 PMCID: PMC6795131 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.01270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscles can be voluntary controlled by the somatic nervous system yielding an active contractile stress response. Thereby, the active muscle stresses are transmitted to the skeleton by a cascade of connective tissue and thus enable motion. In the context of joint perturbations as well as the assessment of the complexity of neural control, the initial phase of the muscle-tendon system's stress response has a particular importance and is analyzed by means of electromechanical delay (EMD). EMD is defined as the time lag between the stimulation of a muscle and a measurable change in force output. While EMD is believed to depend on multiple structures / phenomena, it is hard to separate their contributions experimentally. We employ a physiologically detailed, three-dimensional, multi-scale model of an idealized muscle-tendon system to analyze the influence of (i) muscle and tendon length, (ii) the material behavior of skeletal muscle and tendon tissue, (iii) the chemo-electro-mechanical behavior of the muscle fibers and (iv) neural control on EMD. Comparisons with experimental data show that simulated EMD values are within the physiological range, i.e., between 6.1 and 68.6 ms, and that the model is able to reproduce the characteristic EMD-stretch curve, yielding the minimum EMD at optimal length. Simulating consecutive recruitment of motor units increases EMD by more than 20 ms, indicating that during voluntary contractions neural control is the dominant factor determining EMD. In contrast, the muscle fiber action potential conduction velocity is found to influence EMD even of a 27 cm long muscle by not more than 3.7 ms. We further demonstrate that in conditions where only little pre-stretch is applied to a muscle-tendon system, the mechanical behavior of both muscle and tendon tissue considerably impacts EMD. Predicting EMD for different muscle and tendon lengths indicates that the anatomy of a specific muscle-tendon system is optimized for its function, i.e., shorter tendon lengths are beneficial to minimize the neural control effort for muscles primary acting as motor in concentric contractions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Schmid
- Chair for Continuum Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Institute for Modelling and Simulation of Biomechanical Systems, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Thomas Klotz
- Chair for Continuum Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Institute for Modelling and Simulation of Biomechanical Systems, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Tobias Siebert
- Department of Motion and Exercise Science, Institute of Sport and Motion Science, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Oliver Röhrle
- Chair for Continuum Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Institute for Modelling and Simulation of Biomechanical Systems, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany.,Stuttgart Center for Simulation Sciences (SC SimTech), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
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13
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Tsuchiya Y, Yanagimoto K, Ueda H, Ochi E. Supplementation of eicosapentaenoic acid-rich fish oil attenuates muscle stiffness after eccentric contractions of human elbow flexors. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2019; 16:19. [PMID: 30987668 PMCID: PMC6466674 DOI: 10.1186/s12970-019-0283-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to investigate the effect of supplementation of fish oil rich in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on the damage of the biceps brachii after eccentric contractions (ECCs) of the elbow flexors, particularly focusing on muscle stiffness. Methods Sixteen men were included in this double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel design study and the participants were randomly assigned to the EPA and DHA supplement group (EPA, n = 8) and placebo group (PL, n = 8). They consumed either EPA 600 mg and DHA 260 mg per day or placebo supplement for 8 weeks prior to exercise. Moreover, they performed six sets of 10 ECCs at 100% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) using a dumbbell. Changes in MVC torque, range of motion (ROM), upper arm circumference, muscle soreness, muscle echo intensity, and muscle stiffness were assessed before exercise; immediately after exercise; and 1, 2, and 5 days after exercise. Results MVC torque and ROM were significantly higher in the EPA group than in the PL group after ECCs (p < 0.05). Muscle soreness, upper arm circumference, and muscle echo intensity were significantly higher in the PL group than in the EPA group after ECCs (p < 0.05). In addition, muscle stiffness at 150° was significantly higher in the PL group than in the EPA group immediately after ECCs (p < 0.05). Conclusion The present study showed that EPA and DHA supplementation has a positive role in inhibiting muscle stiffness after ECCs. Trial registration This trial (UMIN000028165) was registered on 10th/July/2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Tsuchiya
- Faculty of Modern life, Teikyo Heisei University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Hisashi Ueda
- Faculty of Health and Medical Science, Teikyo Heisei University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Eisuke Ochi
- Faculty of Bioscience and Applied Chemistry, Hosei University, 3-7-2, Kajino, Koganei, Tokyo, Japan.
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Ateş F, Davies BL, Chopra S, Coleman-Wood K, Litchy W, Kaufman KR. Intramuscular Pressure of Human Tibialis Anterior Muscle Reflects in vivo Muscular Activity. Front Physiol 2019; 10:196. [PMID: 30886588 PMCID: PMC6409299 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Intramuscular pressure (IMP) is the fluid hydrostatic pressure generated within a muscle and reflects the mechanical forces produced by a muscle. By providing accurate quantification of interstitial fluid pressure, the measurement of IMP may be useful to detect changes in skeletal muscle function not identified with established techniques. However, the relationship between IMP and muscle activity has never been studied in vivo in healthy human muscles. To determine if IMP is able to evaluate electromechanical performance of muscles in vivo, we tested the following hypotheses on the human tibialis anterior (TA) muscle: (i) IMP increases in proportion to muscle activity as measured by electrical [Compound Muscle Action Potential (CMAP)] and mechanical (ankle torque) responses to activation by nerve stimulation and (ii) the onset delay of IMP (IMPD) is shorter than the ankle torque electromechanical delay (EMD). Twelve healthy adults [six females; mean (SD) = 28.1 (5.0) years old] were recruited. Ankle torque, TA IMP, and CMAP responses were collected during maximal stimulation of the fibular nerve at different intensity levels of electrical stimulation, and at different frequencies of supramaximal stimulation, i.e., at 2, 5, 10, and 20 Hz. The IMP response at different stimulation intensities was correlated with the CMAP amplitude (r2 = 0.94). The area of the IMP response at different stimulation intensities was also significantly correlated with the area of the CMAP (r2 = 0.93). Increasing stimulation intensity resulted in an increase of the IMP response (P < 0.001). Increasing stimulation frequency caused torque (P < 0.001) as well as the IMP (P < 0.001) to increase. The ankle torque EMD [median (interquartile range) = 41.8 (14.4) ms] was later than the IMPD [33.0 (23.6) ms]. These findings support the hypotheses and suggest that IMP captures active mechanical properties of muscle in vivo and can be used to detect muscular changes due to drugs, diseases, or aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filiz Ateş
- Motion Analysis Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Brenda L Davies
- Motion Analysis Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Swati Chopra
- Motion Analysis Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Krista Coleman-Wood
- Motion Analysis Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - William Litchy
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Kenton R Kaufman
- Motion Analysis Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
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15
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A Piezoresistive Sensor to Measure Muscle Contraction and Mechanomyography. SENSORS 2018; 18:s18082553. [PMID: 30081541 PMCID: PMC6111775 DOI: 10.3390/s18082553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Measurement of muscle contraction is mainly achieved through electromyography (EMG) and is an area of interest for many biomedical applications, including prosthesis control and human machine interface. However, EMG has some drawbacks, and there are also alternative methods for measuring muscle activity, such as by monitoring the mechanical variations that occur during contraction. In this study, a new, simple, non-invasive sensor based on a force-sensitive resistor (FSR) which is able to measure muscle contraction is presented. The sensor, applied on the skin through a rigid dome, senses the mechanical force exerted by the underlying contracting muscles. Although FSR creep causes output drift, it was found that appropriate FSR conditioning reduces the drift by fixing the voltage across the FSR and provides voltage output proportional to force. In addition to the larger contraction signal, the sensor was able to detect the mechanomyogram (MMG), i.e., the little vibrations which occur during muscle contraction. The frequency response of the FSR sensor was found to be large enough to correctly measure the MMG. Simultaneous recordings from flexor carpi ulnaris showed a high correlation (Pearson's r > 0.9) between the FSR output and the EMG linear envelope. Preliminary validation tests on healthy subjects showed the ability of the FSR sensor, used instead of the EMG, to proportionally control a hand prosthesis, achieving comparable performances.
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Effects of a Short-Term Conditioning Intervention on Knee Flexor Sensorimotor and Neuromuscular Performance in Men. J Sport Rehabil 2018; 27:37-46. [PMID: 27992256 DOI: 10.1123/jsr.2016-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Long-term conditioning programs for enhanced sensorimotor performance have been causally linked to reduced risk of serious ligamentous injury. However, the efficacy of brief, short-term conditioning interventions has not been established. OBJECTIVE To assess the effects of short-term sensorimotor conditioning on the knee flexors. DESIGN Randomized controlled trial. SETTING University research laboratory. PARTICIPANTS 23 males randomly assigned to conditioning (n = 12; age: 20.5 ± 1.8 y; height: 1.80 ± 0.05 m; body mass: 74.3 ± 6.0 kg [mean ± SD]) and no-conditioning control (n = 11; age: 20.6 ± 1.9 y; height: 1.79 ± 0.05 m; body mass: 73.6 ± 6.3 kg) groups. INTERVENTION Sensorimotor conditioning of the nondominant leg (4 sessions/wk; 3 wk). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Sensorimotor (blind force and limb-position-replication errors) and neuromuscular (peak force, electromechanical delay [volitional and magnetically evoked]) performance of the knee flexors of both legs were assessed. The contralateral limb and an antecedent period of no conditioning were controls. RESULTS The conditioned leg showed decreased force error to 3.8% (3.8 ± 6.9% vs 6.3 ± 3.7% [mean ± SD], post- vs preconditioning, respectively; F1,21 = 5.4; P = .04) and a trend toward decreased positional error to 2.0% (2.0 ± 6.9% vs 4.7 ± 7.7%, post- vs preconditioning; F1,21 = 2.7; P = .06). Performances were not altered in the control conditions. Modest improvements were noted for volitional electromechanical delay following conditioning (39.8 ± 4.3 ms vs 42.3 ± 5.2 ms [F1,21 = 7.2; P = .01]), but peak force (overall, 202 ± 78 N) and magnetically evoked electromechanical delay (24.7 ± 4.2 ms) were not influenced. CONCLUSION Short-term conditioning offered improved sensorimotor performance and positively affected neuromuscular determinants of knee flexor performance in men.
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Cè E, Longo S, McCoy E, Bisconti AV, Tironi D, Limonta E, Rampichini S, Rabuffetti M, Esposito F. Acute effects of direct inhibitory pressure over the biceps brachii myotendinous junction on skeletal muscle activation and force output. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2017; 37:25-34. [PMID: 28866370 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2017.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Revised: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Force (F) reduction is reported with myotendinous junction (MTJ) manipulation. Autogenic inhibition reflex (AIR) activation is supposed to be the main mechanism. Still, its role remains unclear. The study aimed at assessing the effects of MTJ direct inhibitory pressure (DIP) on neuromuscular activation and F in the elbow flexor (agonist) and extensor (antagonist) muscles. After maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) assessment, thirty-five participants randomly performed submaximal contractions at 20, 40, 60, and 80% MVC. Electromyographic (EMG), mechanomyographic (MMG), and F signals were recorded. Protocol was repeated under (i) DIP (10-s pressure on the biceps brachii MTJ) with the elbow at 120° (DIP120), (ii) DIP with the elbow at 180° (DIP180), and (iii) without DIP (Ctrl). Electromechanical delay (EMD) components, EMG and MMG root mean square (RMS), and rate of force development (RFD) were calculated. Independently from the angle, DIP induced decrements in MVC, RFD, and RMS of EMG and MMG signals and lengthened the EMD components in agonist muscles (P<0.05). The DIP-induced decrease in F output of the agonist muscles seems to be possibly due to a concomitant impairment of the neuromuscular activation and a transient decrease in stiffness. After DIP, the antagonist muscle displayed no changes; therefore, the intervention of AIR remains questionable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiliano Cè
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Longo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Emily McCoy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133 Milan, Italy; Division of Exercise Physiology, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, United States
| | - Angela Valentina Bisconti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Tironi
- IRCCS Don Gnocchi Foundation, Via Capecelatro 66, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Eloisa Limonta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Susanna Rampichini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Rabuffetti
- IRCCS Don Gnocchi Foundation, Via Capecelatro 66, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Esposito
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133 Milan, Italy; IRCCS Don Gnocchi Foundation, Via Capecelatro 66, 20148 Milan, Italy
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Lacourpaille L, Gross R, Hug F, Guével A, Péréon Y, Magot A, Hogrel JY, Nordez A. Effects of Duchenne muscular dystrophy on muscle stiffness and response to electrically-induced muscle contraction: A 12-month follow-up. Neuromuscul Disord 2017; 27:214-220. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2017.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 11/24/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Esposito F, Cè E, Rampichini S, Monti E, Limonta E, Fossati B, Meola G. Electromechanical delays during a fatiguing exercise and recovery in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1. Eur J Appl Physiol 2017; 117:551-566. [PMID: 28194519 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-017-3558-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The partitioning of the electromechanical delay by an electromyographic (EMG), mechanomyographic (MMG) and force combined approach can provide further insight into the electrochemical and mechanical processes involved with skeletal muscle contraction and relaxation. The aim of the study was to monitor by this combined approach the changes in delays' electrochemical and mechanical components throughout a fatiguing task and during recovery in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1), who present at the skeletal muscle level fibres rearrangement, muscle weakness and myotonia, especially in the distal muscles. METHODS After assessing maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), 14 male patients with DM1 and 14 healthy controls (HC) performed a fatiguing exercise at 50% MVC until exhaustion. EMG, MMG, and force signals were recorded from tibialis anterior and vastus lateralis muscles. The electromechanical delay during contraction (DelayTOT) and relaxation (R-DelayTOT) components, EMG and MMG root mean square (RMS) and mean frequency (MF) were calculated off-line. RESULTS The fatiguing exercise duration was similar in both groups. In patients with DM1, delays components were significantly longer compared to HC, especially in the distal muscle during relaxation. Delays components recovered quickly from the fatiguing exercise in HC than in patients with DM1 in both muscles. CONCLUSIONS The alterations in delays observed in DM1 during the fatiguing exercise may indicate that also the lengthening of the electrochemical and mechanical processes during contraction and relaxation could play a role in explaining exercise intolerance in this pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Esposito
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy. .,IRCCS Fondazione don Gnocchi, Centro di Medicina dello Sport, via Capecelatro 66, 20148, Milan, Italy.
| | - Emiliano Cè
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Susanna Rampichini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Monti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Eloisa Limonta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Fossati
- IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Piazza Malan 2, 20097, San Donato Milanese (MI), Italy
| | - Giovanni Meola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy.,IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Piazza Malan 2, 20097, San Donato Milanese (MI), Italy
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Correlation between stiffness and electromechanical delay components during muscle contraction and relaxation before and after static stretching. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2017; 33:83-93. [PMID: 28232285 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2017.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The study was aimed at assessing possible correlations of the electromechanical delay components during muscle contraction (DelayTOT) and relaxation (R-DelayTOT), with muscle-tendon unit (MTU), muscle, and tendon stiffness before and after static stretching (SS). Plantarflexor muscles' maximum voluntary torque (Tmax) was measured in 18 male participants (age 24±3yrs; body mass 76.4±8.9kg; stature 1.78±0.09m; mean±SD). During Tmax, surface electromyogram (EMG), mechanomyogram, and force signals were detected. DelayTOT and R-DelayTOT with their electrochemical and mechanical components were calculated. Passive torque and myotendinous junction displacement were assessed at 0°, 10° and 20° of dorsiflexion to determine MTU, muscle and tendon stiffness. The same protocol was repeated after SS. DelayTOT, R-DelayTOT and their mainly mechanical components correlated with MTU, muscle and tendon stiffness, both before (R2 from 0.562 to 0.894; p<0.001) and after SS (R2 from 0.726 to 0.955; p<0.001). SS decreased Tmax (-14%; p<0.001) and lengthened almost all the DelayTOT and R-DelayTOT components (from +5.9% to +30.5%; p<0.05). Correlations were found only between stiffness and the mechanical components of DelayTOT and R-DelayTOT. Correlations persisted after SS but delays increased to a higher extent than stiffness, indicating a complexity of the relationship between stiffness and delays that will be discussed in the manuscript.
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Cè E, Rampichini S, Monti E, Venturelli M, Limonta E, Esposito F. Changes in the electromechanical delay components during a fatiguing stimulation in human skeletal muscle: an EMG, MMG and force combined approach. Eur J Appl Physiol 2016; 117:95-107. [PMID: 27858153 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-016-3502-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Peripheral fatigue involves electrochemical and mechanical mechanisms. An electromyographic, mechanomyographic and force combined approach may permit a kinetic evaluation of the changes at the synaptic, skeletal muscle fiber, and muscle-tendon unit level during a fatiguing stimulation. METHODS Surface electromyogram, mechanomyogram, force and stimulation current were detected from the gastrocnemius medialis muscle in twenty male participants during a fatiguing stimulation (twelve blocks of 35 Hz stimulations, duty cycle 9 s on/1 s off, duration 120 s). The total electromechanical delay and its three components (between stimulation current and electromyogram, synaptic component; between electromyogram and mechanomyogram signal onset, muscle fiber electrochemical component, and between mechanomyogram and force signal onset, mechanical component) were calculated. Interday reliability and sensitivity were determined. RESULTS After fatigue, peak force decreased by 48% (P < 0.05) and the total electromechanical delay and its synaptic, electrochemical and mechanical components lengthened from 25.8 ± 0.9, 1.47 ± 0.04, 11.2 ± 0.6, and 13.1 ± 1.3 ms to 29.0 ± 1.6, 1.56 ± 0.05, 12.4 ± 0.9, and 17.2 ± 0.6 ms, respectively (P < 0.05). During fatigue, the total electromechanical delay and the mechanical component increased significantly after the 40th second, and then remained stable. The synaptic and electrochemical components lengthened significantly after the 20th and 30th second, respectively. Interday reliability was high to very high, with an adequate level of sensitivity. CONCLUSIONS The kinetic evaluation of the delays during the fatiguing stimulation highlighted different onsets and kinetics, with the events at synaptic level being the first to reveal a significant elongation, followed by those at the intra-fiber level. The mechanical events, which were the most affected by fatigue, were the last to lengthen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiliano Cè
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Susanna Rampichini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Monti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Venturelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Eloisa Limonta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Esposito
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
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Begovic H, Zhou GQ, Schuster S, Zheng YP. The neuromotor effects of transverse friction massage. MANUAL THERAPY 2016; 26:70-76. [PMID: 27497646 DOI: 10.1016/j.math.2016.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2016] [Revised: 05/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/12/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transverse friction massage (TFM), as an often used technique by therapists, is known for its effect in reducing the pain and loosing the scar tissues. Nevertheless, its effects on neuromotor driving mechanism including the electromechanical delay (EMD), force transmission and excitation-contraction (EC) coupling which could be used as markers of stiffness changes, has not been computed using ultrafast ultrasound (US) when combined with external sensors. AIM Hence, the aim of this study was to find out produced neuromotor changes associated to stiffness when TFM was applied over Quadriceps femoris (QF) tendon in healthy subjcets. METHODS Fourteen healthy males and fifteen age-gender matched controls were recruited. Surface EMG (sEMG), ultrafast US and Force sensors were synchronized and signals were analyzed to depict the time delays corresponding to EC coupling, force transmission, EMD, torque and rate of force development (RFD). RESULTS TFM has been found to increase the time corresponding to EC coupling and EMD, whilst, reducing the time belonging to force transmission during the voluntary muscle contractions. CONCLUSIONS A detection of the increased time of EC coupling from muscle itself would suggest that TFM applied over the tendon shows an influence on changing the neuro-motor driving mechanism possibly via afferent pathways and therefore decreasing the active muscle stiffness. On the other hand, detection of decreased time belonging to force transmission during voluntary contraction would suggest that TFM increases the stiffness of tendon, caused by faster force transmission along non-contractile elements. Torque and RFD have not been influenced by TFM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haris Begovic
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, SAR 999077, China.
| | - Guang-Quan Zhou
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, SAR 999077, China.
| | - Snježana Schuster
- University of Applied Health Science, Mlinarska Street 38, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Yong-Ping Zheng
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, SAR 999077, China.
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23
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Van Hooren B, Bosch F. Influence of Muscle Slack on High-Intensity Sport Performance: A Review. Strength Cond J 2016. [DOI: 10.1519/ssc.0000000000000251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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24
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Longo S, Devoto M, Monti E, Venturelli M, Limonta E, Rampichini S, Bisconti AV, Esposito F, Cè E. Acute effects of static stretching on skeletal muscle relaxation at different ankle joint angles. SPORT SCIENCES FOR HEALTH 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s11332-016-0309-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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25
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Lacourpaille L, Nordez A, Doguet V, Hug F, Guilhem G. Effect of damaging exercise on electromechanical delay. Muscle Nerve 2016; 54:136-41. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.25024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Revised: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 12/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lilian Lacourpaille
- French National Institute of Sport, Research Department, Laboratory “Sport, Expertise and Performance,”; EA 7370, 11 avenue du Tremblay 75012 Paris France
- University of Nantes, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Laboratory “Movement, Interactions, Performance,”; EA 4334 Nantes France
| | - Antoine Nordez
- University of Nantes, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Laboratory “Movement, Interactions, Performance,”; EA 4334 Nantes France
| | - Valentin Doguet
- University of Nantes, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Laboratory “Movement, Interactions, Performance,”; EA 4334 Nantes France
| | - FranÇois Hug
- University of Nantes, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Laboratory “Movement, Interactions, Performance,”; EA 4334 Nantes France
- The NHMRC Centre of Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury and Health, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland; Brisbane Australia
| | - GaËL Guilhem
- French National Institute of Sport, Research Department, Laboratory “Sport, Expertise and Performance,”; EA 7370, 11 avenue du Tremblay 75012 Paris France
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Electromechanical delay components during skeletal muscle contraction and relaxation in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1. Neuromuscul Disord 2016; 26:60-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2015.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Revised: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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27
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Pope ZK, DeFreitas JM. The effects of body position and muscle activation on patellar tendon reflex properties. Physiol Meas 2015; 36:1429-38. [DOI: 10.1088/0967-3334/36/7/1429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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28
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Novel insights into skeletal muscle function by mechanomyography: from the laboratory to the field. SPORT SCIENCES FOR HEALTH 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s11332-015-0219-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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29
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Begovic H, Zhou GQ, Li T, Wang Y, Zheng YP. Detection of the electromechanical delay and its components during voluntary isometric contraction of the quadriceps femoris muscle. Front Physiol 2014; 5:494. [PMID: 25566091 PMCID: PMC4274888 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Electromechanical delay (EMD) was described as a time elapsed between first trigger and force output. Various results have been reported based on the measurement method with observed inconsistent results when the trigger is elicited by voluntary contraction. However, mechanomyographic (MMG) sensor placed far away on the skin from the contracting muscle was used to detect muscle fiber motion and excitation-contraction (EC) coupling which may give unreliable results. On this basis, the purpose of this study was to detect EMD during active muscle contraction whilst introducing an ultrafast ultrasound (US) method to detect muscle fiber motion from a certain depth of the muscle. Time delays between onsets of EMG-MMG, EMG-US, MMG-FORCE, US-FORCE, and EMG-FORCE were calculated as 20.5 ± 4.73, 28.63 ± 6.31, 19.21 ± 6.79, 30.52 ± 8.85, and 49.73 ± 6.99 ms, respectively. Intrarater correlation coefficient (ICC) was higher than MMG when ultrafast US was used for detecton of the Δt EMG-US and Δt US-FORCE, ICC values of 0.75 and 0.70, respectively. Synchronization of the ultrafast ultrasound with EMG and FORCE sensors can reveal reliable and clinically useful results related to the EMD and its components when muscle is voluntarily contracted. With ultrafast US, we detect onset from the certain depth of the muscle excluding the tissues above the muscle acting as a low-pass filter which can lead to inaccurate time detection about the onset of the contracting muscle fibers. With this non-invasive technique, understanding of the muscle dynamics can be facilitated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haris Begovic
- Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Kowloon, China
| | - Guang-Quan Zhou
- Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Kowloon, China
| | - Tianjie Li
- Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Kowloon, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Kowloon, China
| | - Yong-Ping Zheng
- Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Kowloon, China
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Lacourpaille L, Hug F, Guével A, Péréon Y, Magot A, Hogrel JY, Nordez A. New insights on contraction efficiency in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2014; 117:658-62. [PMID: 25103971 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00544.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The decrease in muscle strength in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is mainly explained by a decrease in the number of active contractile elements. Nevertheless, it is possible that other electrochemical and force transmission processes may contribute. The present study aimed to quantify the effect of DMD on the relative contribution of electrochemical and force transmission components of the electromechanical delay (i.e., time lag between the onset of muscle activation and force production) in humans using very high frame rate ultrasound. Fourteen patients with DMD and thirteen control subjects underwent two electrically evoked contractions of the biceps brachii with the ultrasound probe over the muscle belly. The electromechanical delay was significantly longer in DMD patients compared with controls (18.5 ± 3.9 vs. 12.5 ± 1.4 ms, P < 0.0001). More precisely, DMD patients exhibited a longer delay between the onset of muscle fascicles motion and force production (13.6 ± 3.1 vs. 7.9 ± 2.0 ms, P < 0.0001). This delay was correlated to the chronological age of the DMD patients (r = 0.66; P = 0.01), but not of the controls (r = -0.45; P = 0.10). No significant difference was found for the delay between the onset of muscle stimulation and the onset of muscle fascicle motion. These results highlight the role of the alteration of muscle force transmission (delay between the onset of fascicle motion and force production) in the impairments of the contraction efficiency in patients with DMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian Lacourpaille
- Laboratory Motricité, Interactions, Performance (EA 4334), Unite de Formation et de Recherche Sciences et Techniques des Activités Physiques et Sportives, University of Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - François Hug
- Laboratory Motricité, Interactions, Performance (EA 4334), Unite de Formation et de Recherche Sciences et Techniques des Activités Physiques et Sportives, University of Nantes, Nantes, France; National Health and Medical Research Council, Centre of Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury and Health, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia;
| | - Arnaud Guével
- Laboratory Motricité, Interactions, Performance (EA 4334), Unite de Formation et de Recherche Sciences et Techniques des Activités Physiques et Sportives, University of Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Yann Péréon
- Centre de Référence Maladies Neuromusculaires Nantes-Angers, University of Nantes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Nantes, France; Atlantic Gene Therapies, Nantes, France; and
| | - Armelle Magot
- Centre de Référence Maladies Neuromusculaires Nantes-Angers, University of Nantes, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Nantes, France; Atlantic Gene Therapies, Nantes, France; and
| | | | - Antoine Nordez
- Laboratory Motricité, Interactions, Performance (EA 4334), Unite de Formation et de Recherche Sciences et Techniques des Activités Physiques et Sportives, University of Nantes, Nantes, France
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Cè E, Rampichini S, Limonta E, Esposito F. Fatigue effects on the electromechanical delay components during the relaxation phase after isometric contraction. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2014; 211:82-96. [PMID: 24319999 DOI: 10.1111/apha.12212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Revised: 08/27/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIM By a combined electromyographic (EMG), mechanomyographic (MMG) and force (F) analysis, the electromechanical delay during muscle relaxation (R-DelayTOT ) was partitioned into electrochemical and mechanical components. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of fatigue on R-DelayTOT components and to assess their intersession and interday reliability Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). METHODS During tetanic stimulations, EMG, MMG and F were recorded from the human gastrocnemius medialis muscle before and after fatigue. The latency between EMG and MMG ripple cessations (R-Δt EMG-MMGR , electrochemical R-DelayTOT component); between MMG ripple cessation and F decay onset (R-Δt MMGR -F, first R-DelayTOT mechanical component); and between F decay onset and maximum MMG negative peak (R-Δt F-MMGp-p , second R-DelayTOT mechanical component) was calculated. RESULTS Before fatigue, R-Δt F-MMGp-p was the major contributor (61.9 ± 1.7 ms, 75%) to R-DelayTOT (82.7 ± 1.0 ms), while R-Δt EMG-MMGR and R-Δt MMGR -F accounted for 16% (13.3 ± 1.2 ms) and 9% (7.5 ± 1.0 ms) respectively. After fatigue, R-DelayTOT , R-Δt EMG-MMGR and R-Δt MMGR -F increased by 11, 41 and 67%, respectively (P < 0.05), whereas R-Δt F-MMGp-p did not change. Consequently, the relative contribution of R-Δt EMG-MMGR , R-Δt MMGR -F and R-Δt F-MMGp-p , to R-DelayTOT changed to 20 ± 2, 12 ± 1 and 68 ± 2% respectively. Measurement reliability was always from high to very high (ICC 0.705-0.959). CONCLUSION Fatigue altered the processes between neuromuscular activation cessation and force decay onset, but not the second mechanical component (cross-bridges detachment rate and series elastic components release). This combined approach provided reliable measurement of the different R-DelayTOT components and it may represent a valid tool to get more insights on muscle electromechanical behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Cè
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health; University of Milan; Milan Italy
- Center of Sport Medicine; Don Gnocchi Foundation; Milan Italy
| | - S. Rampichini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health; University of Milan; Milan Italy
- Center of Sport Medicine; Don Gnocchi Foundation; Milan Italy
| | - E. Limonta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health; University of Milan; Milan Italy
| | - F. Esposito
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health; University of Milan; Milan Italy
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Herda TJ, Herda AA, Costa PB, Cramer JT. The effects of a doublet stimulus and force level on the electromechanical delay. J Strength Cond Res 2014; 27:2314-8. [PMID: 23090318 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0b013e318277d64c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a doublet stimulus evoked during isometric submaximal contractions on the electromechanical delay (EMD). Twenty-three healthy individuals performed isometric step contractions ranging from 10 to 70% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) with a doublet stimulus applied during the contractions. A 2-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (gender [male vs. female] × contraction intensity [10% vs. 20% vs. 30% vs. 40% vs. 50% vs. 60% vs. 70% MVC]) was used to analyze the EMD. The EMD at 10% was significantly less than at 30% (p = 0.022), 40% (p = 0.044), 50% (p = 0.012), 60% (p = 0.041), and 70% MVC (p < 0.001). In addition, the EMD at 70% MVC was significantly higher than at 20% (p = 0.002), 30% (p = 0.006), 40% (p = 0.009), and 50% MVC (p = 0.021). The EMD is the time difference between muscle activation and the onset of muscle force production, with the stretching of the series elastic component (SEC) as the major contributor. A doublet stimulus applied during an isometric contraction minimizes the effects of the SEC during the interpolated twitch technique. Therefore, when the SEC is minimized, the EMD may be lengthened because of mechanisms associated with the excitation-contraction coupling at higher contraction intensities. The EMD measurement, produced with a doublet stimulus, could potentially be a useful tool to examine the effects of fatigue, exercise, stretching, and so on, on the excitation-contraction coupling during various force levels. However, future research is needed to further elucidate the mechanisms that result in a lengthening of the EMD under these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trent J Herda
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA.
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Rampichini S, Cè E, Limonta E, Esposito F. Effects of fatigue on the electromechanical delay components in gastrocnemius medialis muscle. Eur J Appl Physiol 2013; 114:639-51. [PMID: 24362940 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-013-2790-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Under electrically evoked contractions, the time interval between the onset of the stimulation pulse (Stim) and the beginning of force (F) development can be partitioned (Delay(TOT)), by an electromyographic (EMG), mechanomyographic (MMG) and F combined approach, into three components each containing different parts of the electrochemical and mechanical processes underlying neuromuscular activation and contraction. The aim of the study was to evaluate inter- and intra-operator reliability of the measurements and to assess the effects of fatigue on the different Delay(TOT) components. METHODS Sixteen participants underwent two sets of tetanic stimulations of the gastrocnemius medialis muscle, with 10 min of rest in between. After a fatiguing protocol of 120 s, tetanic stimulations were replicated. The same protocol was repeated on a different day. Stim, EMG, MMG and F signals were recorded during contraction. Delay(TOT) and its three components (between Stim and EMG, Δt Stim-EMG; between EMG and MMG, Δt EMG-MMG and between MMG and F, Δt MMG-F) were calculated. RESULTS Before fatigue, Delay(TOT), Δt Stim-EMG, Δt EMG-MMG and Δt MMG-F lasted 27.5 ± 0.9, 1.4 ± 0.1, 9.2 ± 0.5 and 16.8 ± 0.7 ms, respectively. Fatigue lengthened Delay(TOT), Δt Stim-EMG, Δt EMG-MMG and Δt MMG-F by 18, 7, 16 and 22 %, respectively. Δt Stim-EMG, Δt EMG-MMG and Δt MMG-F contributed to Delay(TOT) lengthening by 2, 27 and 71 %, respectively. Reliability was always from high to very high. CONCLUSIONS The combined approach allowed a reliable calculation of the three contributors to Delay(TOT). The effects of fatigue on each Delay(TOT) component could be precisely assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Rampichini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
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Effects of neuromuscular fatigue on the electromechanical delay of the leg extensors and flexors in young and old men. Eur J Appl Physiol 2013; 113:2391-9. [PMID: 23771530 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-013-2675-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2013] [Accepted: 05/31/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a fatigue-inducing bout of submaximal, intermittent isometric contractions on the electromechanical delay (EMD) of the leg extensors and flexors in young and old men. METHODS Twenty young (mean ± SD: age = 25 ± 2.8 years) and sixteen old (age = 70.8 ± 3.8) recreationally active men performed maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs) followed by a fatigue-inducing protocol consisting of intermittent isometric contractions of the leg extensors or flexors using a 0.6 duty cycle (6 s contraction, 4 s relaxation) at 60 % of MVC until volitional fatigue. MVCs were again performed at 0, 7, 15, and 30 min post fatigue. A three-way mixed factorial ANOVA was used to analyze the EMD data. RESULTS There was a two-way muscle × time interaction (P = 0.039) where the EMD of the leg flexors was greater (P = 0.001-0.034) compared with baseline at all post fatigue time periods, but was only greater at immediately post fatigue for the extensors (P = 0.001). A significant two-way interaction for muscle × age (P = 0.009) revealed that the EMD was greater (P = 0.003) for the extensors for the old compared with the young men, but not different for the flexors (P = 0.506). CONCLUSIONS These findings showed differential fatigue-induced EMD recovery patterns between the leg extensors and flexors with the flexors being slower to recover and also that age-related increases of EMD are muscle group specific. The sustained increased EMD of the flexors during recovery may have important injury and performance implications in a variety of populations and settings.
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Travnik L, Djordjevič S, Rozman S, Hribernik M, Dahmane R. Muscles within muscles: a tensiomyographic and histochemical analysis of the normal human vastus medialis longus and vastus medialis obliquus muscles. J Anat 2013; 222:580-7. [PMID: 23586984 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to show the connection between structure (anatomical and histochemical) and function (muscle contraction properties) of vastus medialis obliquus (VMO) and vastus medialis longus (VML). The non-invasive tensiomyography (TMG) method was used to determine the contractile properties (contraction time; T(c)) of VML and VMO muscle, as a reflection of the ratio between the slow and fast fibers in two groups of nine young men. VML and VMO significantly (P < 0.01) differ in the proportion of type 1 (59.6: 44%) and type 2b (6.3: 15%) fibers. The VML muscle is almost entirely composed of type 1 and type 2a fibers. In many samples of this muscle no type 2b fibers were found. The proportion of slow-twitch type 1 fibers is nearly twice as high as the proportion of fast-twitch type 2a fibers. These observations indicate that VML is a slower and more fatigue-resistant muscle than VMO muscle. These characteristics correspond to the different functions of the VML, which is an extensor of the knee, and to the VMO, which maintains the stable position of the patella in the femoral groove. Our results obtained by TMG provided additional evidence that muscle fibers within the segments of VM muscle were not homogenous with regard to their contractile properties, thereby confirming the histochemical results. T(c) can be attributed to the higher percentage of slow-twitch fibers - type 1. The statistically shorter T(c) (P ≤ 0.001) of VMO (22.8 ± 4.0 ms) compared with VML (26.7 ± 4.0 ms) in our study is consistent with previously found differences in histochemical, morphological and electrophysiological data. In conclusion, the results of this study provide evidence that the VML and VMO muscles are not only anatomically and histochemically different muscles, but also functionally different biological structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludvik Travnik
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Reliability of the Electromechanical Delay Components Assessment during the Relaxation Phase. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1155/2013/517838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The study aimed to assess by an electromyographic (EMG), mechanomyographic (MMG), and force-combined approach the electrochemical and mechanical components of the overall electromechanical delay during relaxation (R-EMD). Reliability of the measurements was also assessed. To this purpose, supramaximal tetanic stimulations (50 Hz) were delivered to the gastrocnemius medialis muscle of 17 participants. During stimulations, the EMG, MMG, and force signals were detected, and the time lag between EMG cessation and the beginning of force decay (Δt EMG-F, as temporal indicators of the electrochemical events) and from the initial force decrease to the largest negative peak of MMG signal during relaxation (Δt F-MMG, as temporal indicators of the mechanical events) was calculated, together with overall R-EMD duration (from EMG cessation to the largest MMG negative peak during relaxation). Peak force (pF), half relaxation time (HRT), and MMG peak-to-peak during the relaxation phase (R-MMG p-p) were also calculated. Test-retest reliability was assessed by Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). With a total R-EMD duration of 96.9 ± 1.9 ms, Δt EMG-F contributed for about 24% (23.4 ± 2.7 ms) while Δt F-MMG for about 76% (73.5 ± 3.2 ms). Reliability of the measurements was high for all variables. Our findings show that the main contributor to R-EMD is represented by the mechanical components (series elastic components and muscle fibres behaviour), with a high reliability level for this type of approach.
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Cè E, Rampichini S, Agnello L, Limonta E, Veicsteinas A, Esposito F. Effects of temperature and fatigue on the electromechanical delay components. Muscle Nerve 2013; 47:566-76. [PMID: 23463680 DOI: 10.1002/mus.23627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuromuscular activation can be influenced by both muscle temperature (Tm) and fatigue. METHODS To assess the effects of Tm and fatigue on the electromechanical delay (EMD), 15 participants performed voluntary isometric contractions of different intensities under neutral (TmN), low (TmL), and high (TmH) Tm, before and after a fatiguing exercise. During contraction, electromyogram (EMG), mechanomyogram (MMG), and force (F) were recorded from the biceps brachii muscle. The EMD and the latencies between EMG and MMG (Δt EMG-MMG, which includes the electrochemical processes of EMD) and between MMG and F (Δt MMG-F, which includes the mechanical processes of EMD) were calculated. RESULTS TmL increased only Δt EMG-MMG, both before and after fatigue. Fatigue lengthened EMD, Δt EMG-MMG, and Δt MMG-F under all Tm to a similar extent. CONCLUSIONS While fatigue increased all EMD components, muscle cooling affected only the electrochemical but not the mechanical processes of EMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiliano Cè
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via G. Colombo 71, 20133, Milan, Italy
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Lacourpaille L, Nordez A, Hug F. Influence of stimulus intensity on electromechanical delay and its mechanisms. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2013; 23:51-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2012.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2012] [Revised: 06/26/2012] [Accepted: 06/27/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
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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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Minshull C, James L. The effects of hypohydration and fatigue on neuromuscular activation performance. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2012; 38:21-6. [PMID: 23368824 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2012-0189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of hypohydration by fluid restriction on voluntary and evoked indices of neuromuscular performance at a functional joint angle. Measures of static volitional peak force (2-3-s maximal muscle actions) and evoked peak twitch force, electromechanical delay, and rate of force development were obtained from the knee extensors (30° knee flexion) of 10 males (age, 24 (4) years; height, 1.76 (0.10) m; body mass, 78.7 (9.13) kg (mean (SD))) prior to and immediately following 24 h of (i) euhydration (EU) and (ii) hypohydration (HYP). Neuromuscular performance was also assessed in response to a fatiguing task (3 × 30-s maximal static knee extensions) following each condition. Repeated-measures ANOVAs showed that HYP was associated with a significant 2.1% loss in body mass (p < 0.001) and a 7.8% reduction in volitional peak force (p < 0.05). Following fatigue, data indicated statistically similar levels of impairment to volitional peak force (11.6%, p < 0.01) and rate of force development (21.0%, p < 0.01) between conditions (EU; HYP). No changes to any other indices of performance were observed. The substantive hypohydration-induced deficits to muscle strength at this functional joint angle might convey a decreased performance capability and should be considered by the hypohydrated athlete. Whilst hypohydration did not affect fatigue-related performance of the knee extensors, the additive changes associated with lower baseline levels of strength performance (7.8%) and fatigue (11.6%) coupled with slower rate of muscle force production (from 0-100 ms) following fatigue may present significant challenges to the maintenance of dynamic knee joint stability, particularly at this vulnerable joint position.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Minshull
- SHAPE Research Group, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK.
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Hug F, Lacourpaille L, Nordez A. Electromechanical delay measured during a voluntary contraction should be interpreted with caution. Muscle Nerve 2011; 44:838-9. [PMID: 22006702 DOI: 10.1002/mus.22139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Minshull C, Eston R, Bailey A, Rees D, Gleeson N. Repeated exercise stress impairs volitional but not magnetically evoked electromechanical delay of the knee flexors. J Sports Sci 2011; 30:217-25. [PMID: 22126366 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2011.627370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
The effects of serial episodes of fatigue and recovery on volitional and magnetically evoked neuromuscular performance of the knee flexors were assessed in 20 female soccer players during: (i) an intervention comprising 4 × 35 s maximal static exercise, and (ii) a control condition. Volitional peak force was impaired progressively (-16% vs. baseline: 235.3 ± 54.7 to 198.1 ± 38.5 N) by the fatiguing exercise and recovered to within -97% of baseline values following 6 min of rest. Evoked peak twitch force was diminished subsequent to the fourth episode of exercise (23.3%: 21.4 ± 13.8 vs. 16.4 ± 14.6 N) and remained impaired at this level throughout the recovery. Impairment of volitional electromechanical delay performance following the first episode of exercise (25.5%: 55.3 ± 11.9 vs. 69.5 ± 24.5 ms) contrasted with concurrent improvement (10.0%: 24.5 ± 4.7 vs. 22.1 ± 5.0 ms) in evoked electromechanical delay (P < 0.05), and this increased disparity between evoked and volitional electromechanical delay remained during subsequent periods of intervention and recovery. The fatiguing exercise provoked substantial impairments to volitional strength and volitional electromechanical delay that showed differential patterns of recovery. However, improved evoked electromechanical delay performance might identify a dormant capability for optimal muscle responses during acute stressful exercise and an improved capacity to maintain dynamic joint stability during critical episodes of loading.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Minshull
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
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