Triceps Brachii in Incomplete Tetraplegia: EMG and Dynamometer Evaluation of Residual Motor Resources and Capacity for Strengthening

Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2013 · DOI: 10.1310/sci1904-300 · Published: January 1, 2013

Simple Explanation

This study investigates whether dynamometry and quantitative electromyography (EMG) can provide a more detailed assessment of residual motor resources in individuals with cervical spinal cord injury (cSCI). The research focuses on the triceps brachii muscle, which is essential for upper limb function, and examines how its function is affected in individuals with incomplete tetraplegia. The study suggests that conventional clinical measures like manual muscle tests and ASIA classification may not be adequate to predict which individuals will benefit from activity-based therapy, advocating for more precise assessment methods.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

4 individuals with C5, C6, or C7 level SCI and 2 able-bodied controls

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
All 4 subjects with cervical SCI (cSCI) had increased MUAP amplitudes indicative of denervation.
2
Two of the subjects with cSCI had very weak elbow extension strength (<4 kg), dramatically reduced recruitment, and excessive firing rates (>40 pps), suggesting profound loss of motoneurons.
3
Dynamometry and quantitative EMG may provide information about the extent of gray matter loss in cSCI to help guide rehabilitation strategies.

Research Summary

The study uses dynamometry and quantitative EMG to assess motor resources in the triceps brachii muscles of individuals with cervical spinal cord injury (cSCI). The results indicate that EMG findings, such as MUAP amplitudes and firing rates, differ significantly between cSCI subjects and controls, and also between weaker and stronger cSCI subjects. The authors suggest that these methods provide a more detailed assessment of available motor resources than traditional clinical assessments, potentially aiding in tailoring rehabilitation strategies.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Strategies

Dynamometry and quantitative EMG can guide rehabilitation strategies by providing detailed assessments of residual motor resources.

Personalized Therapy

Better assessment of available motor resources can help tailor therapeutic interventions for individual patients.

Candidate Selection

EMG analysis of MU recruitment and firing-rate modulation may indicate whether an individual has sufficient motor resources to benefit from activity-based therapy.

Study Limitations

1
Limited number of subjects
2
Needle and fine-wire electrodes sample only a small cross-section of the muscle
3
Sensory status is also an important aspect of functional assessment after cSCI that was not specifically addressed in this study.

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