Teaching EMG Analysis Through Gait Symmetry:
A Practical Lab Experiment Introduction: Bridging Theory and Practice in EMG Analysis
Gait symmetry plays a crucial role in human movement efficiency, injury prevention, and rehabilitation. By using Electromyography (EMG) to assess muscle activation, we can identify imbalances that may affect performance or contribute to injury risk. This lab experiment provides a structured approach to quantifying bilateral muscle activation asymmetries during gait using EMG.
Why Analyze
Gait Symmetry?
Gait symmetry is essential for:
- Identifying neuromuscular imbalances that may predispose individuals to injury.
- Monitoring rehabilitation progress in patients recovering from lower limb injuries.
- Enhancing athletic performance by ensuring efficient movement patterns.
By capturing EMG data from key muscles involved in gait, researchers, and practitioners can assess movement efficiency and detect asymmetries that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Learning Objectives for Students
Quantify Bilateral Muscle Activation Asymmetries:
- Learn to use EMG to measure and compare muscle activation patterns between the left and right limbs during gait.
- Identify neuromuscular imbalances that may contribute to injury risk, performance, inefficiencies, or rehabilitation progress.
Interpret EMG Symmetry Data for Clinical & Performance Applications:
- Analyze mean and peak activation levels to assess gait symmetry.
- Understand how factors like injury, fatigue, or training adaptations influence asymmetrical muscle activation and develop strategies for intervention.
Apply Proper Electrode Placement and Signal Processing Techniques:
- Learn the correct skin prep and electrode placement for accurate EMG data collection on the Tibialis Anterior and Lateral Gastrocnemius.
- Understand the importance of signal processing techniques such as Amplitude Normalization (MVC) and RMS smoothing for reliable data interpretation.
