Definition of EMG

Electromyography(EMG) is an experimental technique concerned with the development,

recording and analysis of myoelectric signals. Myoelectric signals are formed by
physiological variations in the state of muscle fiber membranes

he classical Neurological EMG, where an artificial muscle response due to external electrical
stimulation is analyzed in static conditions, the focus of Kinesiological EMG can be
described as the study of the neuromuscular activation of muscles within postural tasks,
functional movements, work conditions and treatment/training regimes
Besides basic physiological and biomechanical studies, kinesiological EMG is established as
an evaluation tool for applied research, physiotherapy/rehabilitation, sports training and
interactions of the human body to industrial products and work conditions:

Typical benefitsare:
• EMG allows to directly “look” into the muscle
• It allows measurement of muscular performance
• Helps in decision making both before/after surgery
• Documents treatment and training regimes
• Helps patients to “find” and train their muscles
• Allows analysis to improve sports activities
• Detects muscle response in ergonomic studies
An ionic equilibrium between the inner and outer spaces of a muscle cell forms a
resting potential at the muscle fiber membrane (approximately -80 to -90 mV when not
contracted). This difference in potential which is maintained by physiological processes (ion
pump) results in a negative intracellular charge compared to the external surface.

The activation of an alpha-motor anterior horn cell (induced

by the central nervous system or reflex) results in the conduction of the excitation along the
motor nerve. After the release of transmitter substances at the motor endplates, an
endplate potential is formed at the muscle fiber innervated by this motor unit.

This excitation leads to the release of calcium ions in the intra-cellular space. Linked
chemical processes (Electro-mechanical coupling)finally produce a shortening of the
contractile elements of the muscle cell.