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Relationship between shear elastic modulus and passive muscle force: an ex-vivo study
Terry K Koo1, Jing-Yi Guo, Jeffrey H Cohen
1Department of Research, New York Chiropractic College, Seneca Falls, NY 13148, United States. tkoo@nycc.edu
Journal of Biomechanics
|June 18, 2013
Summary
Supersonic shear wave elastography (SSWE) offers a reliable, indirect method for measuring passive muscle force. This technique demonstrates a highly linear relationship between muscle elasticity and applied force, crucial for understanding muscle function.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Medical Imaging
- Musculoskeletal Research
Background:
- Passive muscle force is vital for normal muscle function.
- Direct measurement of passive muscle force is currently challenging.
- Non-invasive methods are needed to assess muscle mechanical properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility of Supersonic shear wave elastography (SSWE) for indirectly measuring passive muscle force.
- To establish the relationship between SSWE-measured elasticity and passive muscle force.
- To assess the reliability of SSWE for muscle elasticity measurements.
Main Methods:
- Dissection of gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior muscles from chicken specimens.
- Application of incremental calibration weights (0-400 g) to measure passive muscle force.
- Simultaneous measurement of muscle elasticity using SSWE during force application.
- Analysis of elasticity-load relationship using linear regression and assessment of test-retest reliability via ICC.
Main Results:
- A highly linear relationship was observed between SSWE elasticity and passive muscle force (R² values 0.971-0.999).
- Excellent test-retest reliability was demonstrated for regression parameters (ICC 0.996 for slope, 0.985 for y-intercept).
- SSWE proved to be a highly reliable technique for measuring muscle elasticity.
Conclusions:
- SSWE is a reliable technique for measuring muscle elasticity.
- The identified linear relationship supports SSWE's potential as an indirect measure of passive muscle force.
- This method could advance the understanding and assessment of musculoskeletal biomechanics.
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