Investigation of EMG Parameters for Transtibial Amputees While Treadmill Walking with Different Speeds: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

Electromyography (EMG) is the process of acquiring electrical signals generated through muscle activity (contraction/relaxation). Surface EMG deliberates the amount of electrical activity in the musculoskeletal system in a non-invasive way. Under specific conditions and during certain motor activities, this signal is substantially associated with muscle strength. These Signals are used as Control Inputs by assistive devices. The study aimed to investigate the EMG parameters of lower limb muscles (rectus femoris and biceps femoris) in healthy individuals and transtibial amputees walking on a treadmill at different speeds (0.55 m/s, 0.83 m/s, and 1.11 m/s). Ten non-amputee and two amputee subjects participated. Findings reveal significant reductions in EMG signals at slower speeds, emphasizing foot stability. The right biceps femoris exhibits the highest signals average, while the right rectus femoris has the lowest for amputees. The male participants’ right biceps femoris muscle showed the greatest signals of average treadmill walking activity at 0,55 m/s (0.0014 V) compared to the amputee individuals’ (0.001 V). At (0,83 m/s), male participants (0.0015 V) outperformed amputee subjects (0.0004 V). At (1,11 m/s), male participants (0.0024 V) outperformed amputee subjects (0.001 V). Male participants consistently outperform amputees across speeds. The study suggests the potential application of findings in rehabilitating transtibial amputees on a treadmill, considering distance and maximum speed with a prosthesis. Overall, slow walking pace impacts EMG signals, providing insights for clinicians developing interventions for amputee rehabilitation.

Keywords

• Treadmill walking
• transtibial amputee
• electromyography
• slow speed