Variability of Time- and Frequency-Domain Surface Electromyographic Measures in Non-Fatigued Shoulder Muscles

OCCUPATIONAL APPLICATIONSLocalized Muscle Fatigue (LMF) can be monitored or predicted based on the relative change in the values of surface electromyography (sEMG) measures with respect to the "fresh" or no-fatigue condition. Quantification of LMF based on relative change, though, relies on the assumption that the sEMG measures recorded in a no-fatigue condition can serve as an appropriate reference. Results of this study indicate that sEMG measures in a no-fatigue condition are affected by various work-related factors and provide further guidance on the variability of commonly used time- and frequency-domain sEMG measures to assist the ergonomist in improving the accuracy of LMF assessment.