Muscle-related differences in mechanomyography–force relationships are model-dependent.

INTRODUCTION

In this study we examined the mechanomyographic amplitude (MMG(RMS))–force relationships with log-transform and polynomial regression models for the vastus lateralis (VL), rectus femoris (RF), and first dorsal interosseous (FDI) muscles.

METHODS

Twelve healthy (age 23 ± 3 years) men performed isometric ramp contractions of the leg extensors and index finger from 10% to 80% of their maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) with MMG sensors positioned on the VL, RF, and FDI. Log-transform and polynomial regression models were fitted to the relationships.

RESULTS

There were differences for the a terms (intercepts) and b terms (slopes) from the log-transform model between the FDI, VL, and RF; however, there were no consistent differences identified with the polynomial regression models.

CONCLUSIONS

The log-transform model quantified differences in the patterns of responses between the FDI and the leg extensors, but polynomial regression could not distinguish such differences.