Muscle activation patterns during transfers in individuals with spinal cord injury

The utility of functional electrical stimulation regimens depend on an understanding of movement strategies and muscle activation patterns. The purpose of this study was to describe the electromyographic (EMG) profiles of the lateral transfer in individuals with spinal cord injury. Two movement strategy groups were examined: translatory (n = 9) and rotatory (n = 4). Transfer event markers were identified from force platform data. EMG signal profiles (100ms Root Mean Square envelopes) of triceps and latissimus dorsi bilaterally were generated for each group. Rotatory movement strategy demonstrates greater muscle synchronisation than do individuals who translate. The results provide evidence of different phasic characteristics of muscle activity during the lateral transfer using two possible movement strategies. The implications for intervention regimens are discussed.