Muscle Activity of the Gastrocnemius and Soleus Muscles by Surface Electromyography.

N/ANot Yet RecruitingNCT06953401

University of Extremadura120 enrolled

Overview

This cross-sectional, comparative study aims to evaluate and compare the surface electromyographic (sEMG) activity of the gastrocnemius (medial and lateral) and soleus muscles during static and dynamic contraction tasks. Participants will perform three tests-resting state, isometric, concentric, and eccentric contraction, and dynamic gait-with bilateral measurements. A subgroup analysis will examine muscle activity variations based on foot posture, using the Foot Posture Index (FPI). The study uses the validated mDurance® sEMG system to obtain objective data under controlled lab conditions. The findings will enhance understanding of the functional role of each muscle and could inform rehabilitation and injury prevention strategies.

Study Type

OBSERVATIONAL

Enrollment

120

Conditions

Muscle Activity Electromyography Lower Limb

Interventions

Muscle contraction protocol for electromyographic assessment

Participants will perform a set of standardized lower limb muscle contractions (isometric, concentric, and eccentric) involving the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles while lying on an examination table and in standing position both static and dynamic as well as walking. Surface electromyography (mDurance® sEMG system) will be used to record muscle activation during each phase. The task is designed for physiological measurement only and does not constitute a therapeutic intervention. Protocol includes 3 trials per muscle and side, using standardized test conditions.

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 18 YearsMax age: 30 YearsHealthy volunteers:

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * Age between 18 and 30 years. * No history of severe musculoskeletal disorders in the lower limbs. * No recent surgery or injury in the last 6 months. * No dermatological conditions affecting electrode placement. * Not allergic to adhesives. * Ability to perform the task without limitation. •. No high-intensity exercise in the 12 hours before testing * Ability to provide informed consent and complete the assessment Exclusion Criteria: * Reduced lower limb mobility. * Neuromuscular or skeletal conditions affecting the calf region. * Intense physical activity 12 hours before testing. * Lack of informed consent.

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Muscle activation, microvolts (μV)

Muscle activation (μV) as recorded by mDurance® sEMG system during the contraction protocol (soleus vs. gastrocnemius).

Time frame: Baseline or Day 1. During a single assessment session (~30 minutes).

Secondary Outcomes

RMS (root mean square) and peak EMG signal values (μV)

RMS and peak EMG signal values (μV): average muscle activity measured by RMS (root mean square) and maximum voluntary contraction by peak activation. Comparison of Medial vs. Lateral Gastrocnemius Activation. Comparison of Medial vs. Lateral Gastrocnemius Activation

Time frame: Baseline or Day 1. During the same assessment session

Differences in muscle activity by contraction type (μV)

Differences in muscle activity by contraction type (μV): Effect of contraction type (isometric/concentric/eccentric) on muscle activity. Comparison of Medial vs. Lateral Gastrocnemius Activation

Time frame: Baseline or Day 1. Immediately after the execution of each contraction type during the session

Activity differences by foot posture (pronated, neutral, supinated)

Muscle activation of the gastrocnemius and soleus will be compared based on foot posture (pronated, neutral, or supinated). This aims to identify whether foot type influences activation patterns.

Time frame: Baseline or Day 1. Immediately after foot posture assessment during the same session

Correlation with physical activity level Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-short version)

Correlation with physical activity level (IPAQ-short version): Correlation with sociodemographic and anthropometric factors (age, sex, BMI, activity level). Self-reported questionnaire assessing physical activity over the last 7 days. Physical activity is categorized as Low, Moderate, or High based on total MET-minutes/week. Sitting time is recorded separately as an indicator of sedentary behavior.

Time frame: Baseline or Day 1. Collected at baseline before EMG assessment