Measuring Neuromuscular Fatigue in Cervical Spinal Musculature of Military Helicopter Aircrew

Abstract

Neck pain and muscle function in aircrew have received considerable attention. We hypothesized normalized electromyography (EMG) frequency would provide insight into appropriate methods to assess muscle fatigue in helicopter aircrew. METHODS: 40 helicopter aircrew performed isometric testing that included maximal voluntary contractions (MVC) and 70% MVC endurance protocols of extension, flexion, and left and right lateral flexion for cervical muscles. Bilateral muscle activity in the splenius capitis, sternocleidomastoid, and upper trapezius was monitored with EMG. Normalized mean EMG frequency was calculated for each muscle at the start and end of the 70% MVC trials to determine which muscles fatigued and limited force maintenance during each isometric movement.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 01, 2009
Accession Number
ADA512958

Entities

People

  • Bradley A. Bumgardner
  • J. P. Neary
  • James C. Croll
  • Michael F. Harrison
  • Usha Kuruganti
  • V. C. Chancey
  • Wayne J. Albert

Organizations

  • University of Regina

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Bone Diseases
  • Data Analysis
  • Frequency
  • Helicopters
  • Maintenance
  • Military Medicine
  • Musculoskeletal Physiology
  • Night Vision
  • Pain
  • Rehabilitation
  • Skeletal Muscle
  • Spinal Column
  • Spine
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Training
  • Universities

Readers

  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Exercise and Sports Science.