Neuromuscular Function

This equipment allows us to perform tests for the assessment of muscular strength and electrical activity (electromyography). Peak explosive power, generated during a two-legged push, is measured using an experimental protocol via the Multipurpose Ergo Dynamometer (MED). The MED is an instrument designed to measure the force and velocity of a thrust executed on dynamometric force plates.

The subject is seated on a carriage supported by four bearings on two rails fixed to the MED structure. Two additional bearings, free to move laterally on the guides, ensure correct alignment on the rails even during high-intensity thrusts. A hydraulic system allows the structure to incline upward by up to 30°.

Two rectangular force plates are positioned in front of and perpendicular to the carriage so that the subject, by pushing with one or both legs, accelerates both themselves and the carriage backward. Mechanical blocks can be positioned on the rails to adjust the distance between the carriage and the force plates, while a rear-mounted mechanical system absorbs the impact and prevents the carriage from overshooting. The force exerted on the platforms is detected by load cells that transmit a consistent signal regardless of the subject’s pushing position. Velocity is calculated by a rear-mounted speedometer connected to the carriage via an inextensible cable. Analog force and velocity signals are digitized and recorded by a data acquisition system.

The protocol involves a series of maximal two-legged thrusts, each starting with a 110° knee angle and the structure inclined at 25°. To prevent countermovement and ensure precise starting angles, two mechanical blocks are positioned on the MED rails.

The electromyograph performs surface electromyography by recording the electrical activity produced by muscle fiber contraction. It provides critical insights into muscle activation intervals and levels—essential parameters for studying neuromuscular function during movement.

The electromyograph is typically used in conjunction with dynamometers (load cells) to correlate electromyographic activity with the muscular force produced by the subject during a specific task.

Epidural spinal cord stimulation enables the optimization of training for both high-level athletes and individuals with limited physical capacities.

Muscle ultrasound allows for the assessment of specific morphological characteristics, such as muscle thickness, fiber length, and the pennation angle. These parameters are instrumental in understanding the physiological effects of specialized training programs.

Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) is a non-invasive technique that analyzes body composition by measuring the body’s electrical impedance. It determines total body water, fat mass, and fat free mass—data that is fundamental for developing personalized nutritional and athletic plans. The procedure involves applying electrodes to the hands and feet to deliver a low-intensity electrical current.