Quantitative electromyographic studies of back muscle activity relatated to posture and loading

The myoelectric activity of some of the posterior muscles of the back was studied quantitatively using signal amplitude estimation and power spectrum analysis. Surface electrodes were placed on both sides of the trunk at T4, T8, L1, L3, and L5 levels. Four different angles of forward flexion were studied during external loading of the spine with 200 N. At 30 degrees of forward flexion studies were made when the load was increased from 0 to 300 N. Asymmetric loading was studied with the trunk erect, in lateral flexion, and in rotation. The myoelectric activity increased when the angle of flexion increased and when the external load was increaed at a fixed angle of flexion. During asymmetric loading, comparatively higher activity was found on the contralateral side in the lumbar region and on the ipsilateral side in the thoracic region. The magnitude of the power spectrum changes correlated well with the amplitude of the myoelectric signal. Spectral changes increased when the signal amplitude increased, indicating localized muscle fatigue.