A study of various normalization procedures for within day electromyographic data

Normalization of electromyographic (EMG) data has been described in the scientific literature as crucial for comparisons between subjects and between muscles. The reference value used in the normalization equation has, however, varied across reports. Comparison between studies could be facilitated by use of a common value. We propose the best way to select the common value is through a reliability approach. Accordingly, the purpose of this study was to identify which of three EMG normalization values provided the most reproducible data set. The gastrocnemius EMG results from 20 normal persons and 20 individuals with anterior cruciate deficiency who were participating in a larger study were normalized to a maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) EMG, peak dynamic EMG, and mean dynamic EMG. Values were then subjected to evaluation using four statistical measures: inter and intrasubject coefficients of variation (CV), variance ratio (VR), and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The CV measures, while not being reflective of reliability were included for comprehensive consideration in view of other literature. The intersubject CV which measures group variability and the intrasubject CV which measures precision were lower for the dynamic conditions, however, the VR and ICC suggested reproducibility was best with EMG from the MVIC. Given that other studies have advocated normalizing EMG by taking data from the dynamic event, reconsideration may be warranted if high reproducibility is desired. Interpretations of the findings given the population, muscle and condition studied are discussed.