Man Ther. 2000 Mar; 1(2): 99-103.

Clinical applications of power spectral analysis of electromyographic investigations in muscle function.

Ng JK, Richardson CA, Kippers V, Parnianpour M, Bui BH.

Department of Physiotherapy; Department of Anatomical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia

SUMMARY. Electromyographic (EMG) power spectral analysis of the electrical signals produced by a contracting muscle is emerging as a useful clinical tool. It has the potential to measure objectively the fatigue rate of individual muscles during an exertion. This technical note gives a simple introduction to the spectral changes of the EMG signals during fatigue. It outlines the technical aspects of EMG investigations including the data collection, signal analysis and its interpretation. The clinical applications, its present limitations and future applications are also given. The correct use and interpretation of the power spectral analysis in the clinical environment is important for its further development as a clinical measurement. Copyright 2000 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.