Industrial electromyography (EMG)

Electromyography (EMG) can be a very useful analysis tool if applied under proper conditions and interpreted in light of basic physiological, biomechanical and recording principles. Through proper design of ergonomic studies and by recognizing the limitations of the interpretive process, E M G can serve as a tool in work evaluation. E M G is one of several methods which are used for analyzing the performance associated with the workplace. If the work is heavy, it is often best analyzed via physiological measures, such as oxygen consumption, which provide a general measure of whole body work. E M G can be used for the same purpose provided that many muscles of the body are evaluated during the performance of a task, however, E M G is more often used to evaluate lighter, repetitive work where the activity of specific muscles is of interest. Ergonomic analyses often use this technique when comparing the specific musculoskeletal stress (in given muscles) associated with various work positions, postures or activities and for validation of ergonomic principles. It is also used as input to biomechanical models that describe the synergistic effects of muscle activities upon joint loadings. Thus, the use of E M G is appropriate when it is suspected that a specified muscle or group of muscles is adversely affected due to the design of the workplace. The ergonomist should have an idea about which muscles will be affected by the work before E M G is used.