URL study guide

https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2024-2025/B_ELECTROMYO

Course Objective

After this course, the student will be able to select methods for EMG signal data acquisition and analysis to obtain information on motor control, muscle activation and muscle fatigue, in relation to a specific research question and will be able to critically interpret the results obtained. Intended learning outcomes
• The student has a fundamental knowledge about electrophysiology and the background of electromyographical signals.
• The student has a fundamental knowledge of the different ways of collecting electromyographical data in various fields of application.
• The student can select the appropriate method for collecting and analyzing EMG data in a kinesiological study.
• The student can identify contamination in EMG data and knows which methods to apply to reduce its effects.
• The student knows the possibilities and limitations of EMG data and EMG analysis techniques.
• The student critically interprets EMG data in relation to motor control, force and fatigue.
• The student presents written and oral reports on EMG acquisition, analysis and interpretation.
• The student actively interacts and collaborates with peers to prepare written and oral reports on EMG acquisition, analysis and interpretation.
• The student critically discusses written and oral reports on EMG acquisition, analysis and interpretation with peers.
• The student critically reflects and debates on EMG related scientific papers with peers.

Course Content

In this course, students are introduced to the physical and physiological background of electromyography (EMG). Subsequently, the course focuses on methodological aspects of EMG acquisition and analysis, addressing the potential of this method as well as its pitfalls.

Teaching Methods

7 lecture x 2 hours; 6 scheduled slide casts x 2 hours; 6 Q&A session x 1 hour; 1 Demo/EMG acquisition x 2 hours; 6 seminars x 2 hours (attendance compulsory); 3-4 journal clubs x 3 hours (attendance compulsory); The lectures introduce the following topics:
- EMG amplitude estimation;
- force regulation (motor unit recruitment and firing);
- sources of variability of EMG data;
- electrode types;
- bio-electricity
- volume conduction;
- action potential propagation;
- applications of EMG amplitude;
- applications of action potential propagation velocity;
- optimisation of EMG acquisition and analysis;
- EMG and motor control
- advanced EMG analysis techniques

Method of Assessment

Graded reports, presentations and participation in journal clubs

Literature

Scientific articles and lecture handouts

Target Audience

Students in the Master and Research Master programs Human Movement Science and students in the Master Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Sciences

Custom Course Registration

n.a.

Additional Information

A valid and recent Matlab license is necessary but programming skills are not required

Entry Requirements

Basic knowledge and understanding of the physiology of muscles and their control.

Recommended background knowledge

The student should have a basic knowledge and understanding of the physiology of muscles and their control at the level described for example in Physiology of Sport and Exercise, JH Willmore and DL Costill, Human Kinectics, ISBN 0-87322-693-3, chapters 2-3.

Explanation Canvas

Seminars and journal clubs are compulsory and have to be prepared as a group assignment
Academic year1/09/2431/08/25
Course level6.00 EC

Language of Tuition

  • English

Study type

  • Master