Dr. Manuela Besomi discusses the use of electromyography (EMG) in measuring muscle activity and its limitations. She explains that EMG measures the electrical activity of muscles and can provide information about muscle firing, patterns of activity, and synergies. However, it cannot directly measure force or physical properties of tissues. Dr. Besomi also emphasizes the importance of proper experimental design and interpretation of EMG data to avoid misleading results and flawed clinical recommendations. She discusses the complexity of the neuromuscular system, including factors such as muscle morphology, fascia, and 3D movement, and highlights the need for a holistic approach to rehabilitation and performance training. Additionally, she explores the concept of muscle activation and its limitations, as well as the influence of knee and ankle joint positioning on the stiffness of the Achilles tendon and soleus muscle. The conversation covers topics such as the importance of considering the demands of the task in rehabilitation, the role of variability in training, the relationship between sleep and recovery, and the psychological factors that contribute to injury and performance. The study discussed focuses on the impact of poor sleep on the transition from acute to chronic pain and the potential of exercise to mitigate this effect. The conversation also touches on the need for a holistic approach to back pain and the importance of studying individuals who are injury-resistant.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:48 Understanding Electromyography (EMG)

07:49 Importance of Experimental Design and Interpretation in EMG Studies

09:22 Complexity of the Neuromuscular System and Holistic Approach

26:19 Influence of Joint Positioning on Tissue Stiffness

29:07 Considering the Demands of the Task in Rehabilitation

35:49 The Role of Variability in Training

43:18 The Relationship Between Sleep and Recovery

48:20 The Impact of Psychological Factors on Injury and Performance

53:19 A Holistic Approach to Back Pain

Melbourne Athletic Development is a sports and injury management clinic based in Melbourne, Australia. To maximise your performance or optimise your injury management contact the team at www.melbourneathleticdevelopment.com.au