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The problem with skeletal muscle series elasticity.

Walter Herzog1

  • 1Faculty of Kinesiology, Human Performance Lab, University of Calgary, Calgary, T2N-1N4 Canada.

BMC Biomedical Engineering
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PubMed
Summary

Series elasticity in muscles is a defined mechanical concept. Misinterpreting aponeuroses as series elastic elements leads to errors in understanding muscle mechanics and energy storage.

Keywords:
AponeurosisHill modelMuscle elasticityMuscle energeticsMuscle stiffnessParallel elastic elementRelease of energyStorage of energyStretch-shortening cycleTendon

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Area of Science:

  • Biomechanics
  • Skeletal Muscle Physiology

Background:

  • Muscle force generation involves contractile and passive elastic components.
  • The concepts of "series" and "parallel" elasticity have been used to describe muscle mechanics.
  • Previous interpretations have led to confusion and erroneous conclusions regarding muscle elasticity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To clarify the mechanical definition of series elasticity in muscles.
  • To critically examine the role of aponeuroses in muscle mechanics.
  • To correct misunderstandings regarding series elasticity and its application to skeletal muscle.

Main Methods:

  • Review of theoretical concepts and experimental examples of series elasticity.
  • Analysis of the mechanical definition of series elasticity.
  • Discussion of the mechanical properties and function of aponeuroses.

Main Results:

  • The mechanical definition of series elasticity is crucial for accurate interpretation.
  • Aponeuroses are not in series with muscle contractile elements or tendons.
  • Treating aponeuroses as series elastic elements leads to overestimations of energy storage and release.

Conclusions:

  • Series elasticity is a precise mechanical concept requiring careful application in skeletal muscle.
  • Incorrectly classifying aponeuroses as series elastic elements distorts understanding of muscle stiffness and energy dynamics.
  • Accurate measurement of aponeuroses' mechanical properties and their contribution to energy storage remains an unaddressed challenge.