Eng. Andrea Merlo and Dr. Isabella Campanini, from the MerloBioEngineering team, have recently co-authored a second article in collaboration with the Italian Society for Movement Analysis in Clinic (SIAMOC).
The paper, titled “Surface electromyography: a noninvasive approach for the analysis of muscle activity – second part”, reflects a multidisciplinary effort involving Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation clinicians, Physiotherapists, and Bioengineers.
We already wrote about the first publication here.
Clinical applications of sEMG
In this second paper, we explored several application areas for sEMG and highlighted new methodological advancements that are transforming the field.
You can read the new paper here.
We illustrated its fundamental use in gait analysis, where it complements kinetics and kinematics analysis, giving clinicians precise information for assessing patients, monitoring the progression of their pathology, and supporting clinical decision-making.
Additional applications we discussed include:
- Localized myoelectric fatigue (e.g., for return-to-sport and injury prevention in athletes)
- Muscle activation and symmetry (e.g., for patients with low back pain)
- Postural control analysis
- Assessment of medical and physiotherapeutic interventions (e.g., dry-needling, functional nerve block)
- Study of the chewing patterns and the effectiveness of orthodontic devices (e.g., for the treatment of crossbite)
- Specific training with biofeedback (e.g., pelvic floor rehabilitation)
- Identification of innervation zone for accurate episiotomy in pregnant women
New frontiers of sEMG in rehabilitation
Beyond traditional applications already discussed, sEMG is expanding into new fields:
- Serious games (involving games to enhance education or rehabilitation, with sEMG-driven wearable sensors)
- Ergonomics studies for the prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders
- Myoelectrically-controlled prosthesis for amputees
We also discussed the methodological innovations for sEMG, such as the high-density sEMG, along with their strengths and added value to the field.
Writing this paper allowed us to collaborate with other Italian sEMG experts, enriching our knowledge and ability to work as a team.
Our EmgEasyReport software, developed over many years and improved from version to version, provides you with maximum smoothness in analyzing your electromyography data. Reach out to us through our dedicated page to learn more.
