Upper and lower extremity proprioceptive inputs modulate EMG activity of the trapezius

Axial muscles like the trapezius have different reflexive and functional properties. The aim of this study was to analyze the long latency reflexes obtained from the trapezius by the electrical stimulation of upper and lower extremity peripheral nerves. Thirty-one healthy volunteers were included in the study. Surface EMG activity of both trapezius muscles was recorded and averaged after electrical stimulation of the median and peroneal mixed nerves. The recordings were performed during supine and erect posture in nine subjects to evaluate of the effect of postural differences on reflex response. Reflex recordings were also performed in six subjects from some other muscles together with the trapezius by the stimulation of the peroneal nerve. Reflex responses including three components were recorded from the trapezius muscle (unilateral or bilateral) by electrical stimulation of the peroneal nerve. The most stable of them was the second component (23/31) which had a latency of 72.6 ± 7.9 ms for the ipsilateral, and 74.2 ± 8.5 ms for the contralateral trapezius (15/31). For median stimulation, the first component recorded at 32.0 ± 6.7 ms was the most stable (25/31). The second component was more frequently recorded on the contralateral side (14/31). Erect posture increased the amplitude of these components. Upper and lower extremity proprioceptive inputs modulate the EMG activity of the trapezius. This modulation probably related with postural adjustments.