Electromyography, Lower Limb, Muscle Activity
Conditions
Brief summary
This cross-sectional, comparative study aims to evaluate and compare the surface electromyographic (sEMG) activity of the gastrocnemius (medial and lateral) and soleus muscles during static and dynamic contraction tasks. Participants will perform three tests-resting state, isometric, concentric, and eccentric contraction, and dynamic gait-with bilateral measurements. A subgroup analysis will examine muscle activity variations based on foot posture, using the Foot Posture Index (FPI). The study uses the validated mDurance® sEMG system to obtain objective data under controlled lab conditions. The findings will enhance understanding of the functional role of each muscle and could inform rehabilitation and injury prevention strategies.
Interventions
OTHERMuscle contraction protocol for electromyographic assessment
Participants will perform a set of standardized lower limb muscle contractions (isometric, concentric, and eccentric) involving the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles while lying on an examination table and in standing position both static and dynamic as well as walking. Surface electromyography (mDurance® sEMG system) will be used to record muscle activation during each phase. The task is designed for physiological measurement only and does not constitute a therapeutic intervention. Protocol includes 3 trials per muscle and side, using standardized test conditions.
Sponsors
University of Extremadura
Study design
Observational model
OTHER
Time perspective
CROSS_SECTIONAL
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
18 Years to 30 Years
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
* Age between 18 and 30 years. * No history of severe musculoskeletal disorders in the lower limbs. * No recent surgery or injury in the last 6 months. * No dermatological conditions affecting electrode placement. * Not allergic to adhesives. * Ability to perform the task without limitation. •. No high-intensity exercise in the 12 hours before testing * Ability to provide informed consent and complete the assessment
Exclusion criteria
* Reduced lower limb mobility. * Neuromuscular or skeletal conditions affecting the calf region. * Intense physical activity 12 hours before testing. * Lack of informed consent.
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Muscle activation, microvolts (μV) | Baseline or Day 1. During a single assessment session (~30 minutes). | Muscle activation (μV) as recorded by mDurance® sEMG system during the contraction protocol (soleus vs. gastrocnemius). |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| RMS (root mean square) and peak EMG signal values (μV) | Baseline or Day 1. During the same assessment session | RMS and peak EMG signal values (μV): average muscle activity measured by RMS (root mean square) and maximum voluntary contraction by peak activation. Comparison of Medial vs. Lateral Gastrocnemius Activation. Comparison of Medial vs. Lateral Gastrocnemius Activation |
| Differences in muscle activity by contraction type (μV) | Baseline or Day 1. Immediately after the execution of each contraction type during the session | Differences in muscle activity by contraction type (μV): Effect of contraction type (isometric/concentric/eccentric) on muscle activity. Comparison of Medial vs. Lateral Gastrocnemius Activation |
| Activity differences by foot posture (pronated, neutral, supinated) | Baseline or Day 1. Immediately after foot posture assessment during the same session | Muscle activation of the gastrocnemius and soleus will be compared based on foot posture (pronated, neutral, or supinated). This aims to identify whether foot type influences activation patterns. |
| Correlation with physical activity level Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-short version) | Baseline or Day 1. Collected at baseline before EMG assessment | Correlation with physical activity level (IPAQ-short version): Correlation with sociodemographic and anthropometric factors (age, sex, BMI, activity level). Self-reported questionnaire assessing physical activity over the last 7 days. Physical activity is categorized as Low, Moderate, or High based on total MET-minutes/week. Sitting time is recorded separately as an indicator of sedentary behavior. |
Countries
Spain
Contacts
Primary ContactRaquel MA Dra. Raquel Mayordomo Acevedo, PhD
Outcome results
None listed