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Electromyographic biofeedback and sustained masseter muscle contraction in man
1Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, University of Bristol Dental School, U.K.
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation
|July 1, 1988
Summary
Visual biofeedback enhances voluntary muscle contractions. Subjects increased masseter muscle activity by 36% with visual cues, demonstrating the ability to overcome normal fatigue limitations.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Motor Control
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Voluntary muscle contractions are typically limited by central factors during fatigue.
- Understanding these limitations is crucial for rehabilitation and performance enhancement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of visual biofeedback on sustained voluntary contractions of mandibular elevator muscles.
- To determine if visual biofeedback can help subjects override central fatigue mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-two human subjects participated in the study.
- Sustained voluntary contractions of mandibular elevator muscles were performed twice: once without and once with visual biofeedback.
- Electromyographic (EMG) activity of the masseter muscle was recorded.
Main Results:
- Masseter muscle EMG activity was significantly higher (mean of 36%) during contractions with visual biofeedback compared to those without.
- This increase indicates enhanced muscle activation when visual feedback is provided.
Conclusions:
- Visual biofeedback enables individuals to exert greater voluntary force during sustained muscle contractions.
- The findings suggest that visual biofeedback can help override central neural factors that normally limit muscle output during fatigue.